Message from North Herts Council
Following the second wettest winter (October to March) on record for Hertfordshire, groundwater levels are unusually high here and across southeast England, and are responding quickly to any rainfall.
Since groundwater was observed in the sump at Kimpton on 23 February 2024, it has been rising. It is currently at 162cms, which is approximately 70cm below the ground surface. Over the last week, groundwater emergence near Whiteway Bottom and in other fields has been observed and is being monitored.
Usually the weather has improved by May and groundwater levels start to recede as summer approaches, but with the wet winter and the continuing forecast for rain, groundwater levels are likely to remain high for some time yet.
We continue to monitor the situation closely with our partners at Herts County Council, Kimpton Parish Council and the Environment Agency. We will provide further updates as and when there is more information available.