We're under a flash flood warning here in NE PA. I live in an old house with a dirt-floor dungeon of a basement. A ditch runs across it, and we have a sump pump taking care of the water. I've had this setup for decades. I don't know how old the present pump is, but it's neither ancient nor new.

I'm concerned because the pump is turning on every couple of minutes. it stays on for less than a minute, and when it turns off it makes a long shuddering or thumping sound I don't remember hearing before. Normally it runs for a longer period, with longer intervals in between.

The water is flowing into the basement rapidly, so does that explain the frequent turn-ons? Is there something I can do to improve the situation?

Thank you!