Flood Warning: Groundwater flooding in South East London

Message Last Updated:
2024-05-14 16:31:00

Severity Last Changed:
2024-03-06 17:08:00

Groundwater levels in East Surrey and South London rose during the winter following higher than average rainfall. Levels continued rising until late March and remained high in April. The Caterham Bourne is in flow since mid-March and is still flowing in the Whyteleafe and Kenley area, and the Environment Agency is monitoring the levels and flow of the Bourne in Kenley Bourne Park.

However, groundwater levels across the area have now started to fall, although some properties with deep basements in and around Purley and low-lying land near the Caterham Bourne could still experience flooding.

Whilst property and garden flood risks have reduced, riparian owners are reminded to keep clear any sections of river that flow through their land. The Environment Agency is monitoring the situation alongside Surrey County Council, Tandridge District Council and the London Borough of Croydon. We will update this message on Thursday 23 May 2024, or sooner if the situation changes.