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In 2026, the UK has experienced several forms of flooding affecting different regions. One common type is fluvial flooding, which occurs when rivers or streams overflow their banks, inundating adjacent land. Another frequently encountered flood type is pluvial flooding, brought on by heavy or sustained rainfall that overwhelms drainage infrastructure and causes surface water to accumulate.
In addition to these, groundwater flooding has emerged as a significant issue, particularly across southern England. Areas situated in low-lying river valleys and chalk aquifer zones, such as the Salisbury Plains, are especially vulnerable to this type of flooding. According to the Environment Agency, groundwater flooding happens when the underground water table rises above the surface level, resulting in water seeping upward onto roads and even into cellars or basements.
Groundwater flooding differs from fluvial or pluvial flooding in the length of time it persists. The British Geological Survey (BGS) notes that groundwater flooding can last for weeks or even months, often causing more severe damage to buildings. Besides properties, this flooding can severely impact infrastructure located below the natural ground surface, including tunnels, roads, and railway cuttings. The BGS also highlights practical problems such as flooded septic tanks and sewers, which may prevent toilets from functioning properly.
Compared to England, regions like Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland typically experience less widespread groundwater flooding. This is mainly due to differences in bedrock geology and the local landscape. For instance, most water supplied in Wales is sourced from rivers and reservoirs, which currently maintain more than 90% capacity. Meanwhile, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) warns that elevated groundwater levels might enhance the severity and duration of other flooding types, such as river and surface water floods
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