A band of persistent and heavy rain accompanied by gale force winds is expected to affect Cumbria this morning (Friday).

Named as Storm Erik by the Met Office, the rain is expected to last until late this afternoon with blustery showers following through into Saturday morning.

The rain will strengthen and weaken in its intensity during Friday morning with some quite high cumulative totals possible over the high ground of the Lakeland Fells and the Pennines over the 24 hour period.

Some localised river and lake response is to be expected and also localised surface water flooding issues are possible.

River levels are currently running at average levels for this time of year, but following some rainfall and snow melt at the start of this week they remain responsive to further rainfall.

The Environment Agency are currently forecasting some rise and some Flood Alert levels are likely to be crossed on Friday.

Localised river and lake flooding to low lying land, roads and campsite areas is possible.

Localised surface water flooding issues is also a potential hazard with spray and difficult driving conditions as the weather system passes through the county, the main risk period has been assessed as being during Friday morning and early afternoon periods.

Gale force westerly to south-westerly winds associated with this weather system will increase in strength on Friday through into Saturday morning and are likely to cause some stormy coastal conditions with large on-shore waves and wind-blown spray affecting exposed and low-lying areas along the Cumbria Coast around high tide periods.

Some minor localised tidal flooding issues cannot be discounted.

A statement from the Environment Agency said: "Our Duty Officers are monitoring the situation closely and Environment Agency Field Team staff are being deployed to ensure grids and debris screens on watercourses are clear to maintain unobstructed flows.

"Please refer to our website https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/ for up to date information on alerts /warnings in force."

The agency is also encouraging residents to be flood ready by taking three simple steps:

  • Sign up to Flood Warning Service to receive free flood warnings
  • Know what to do when a flood warning is issued. Have a personal flood plan for you and your family
  • Keep an eye on the situation. To view a five-day weather forecast and monitor river levels, visit: https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/ and www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/

Further information is available online at www.gov.uk/flood or by ringing Floodline on 0345 988 1188.