A Cumbrian council said its roads teams were in standby as the county braces itself for bad weather.
An amber weather warning for rain has been issued for parts of Cumbria this weekend.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain from 6pm today, Saturday December 13, until 6pm on Monday.
An amber weather warning is in place for rain from 6am tomorrow, Sunday December 14 until 6pm on Monday for parts of the county.
Westmorland & Furness Council said its staff were ready to respond to flooding on the roads.
It added: “With over 200mm of rain forecast and the ground already saturated from recent rainfall, we are expecting localised flooding and surface water.
“Gulley wagons will be deployed across the area to tackle any highways flooding caused by over capacity drains or standing water issues.”
Rail firm Northern has already cancelled all its trains for tomorrow and Monday.
The yellow weather warning says heavy and persistent rain may lead to flooding and travel disruption.
The Met Office added: “Outbreaks of rain will spread in from the northwest during Saturday afternoon and last through Sunday before finally clearing away on Monday morning.
“The rain will be persistent and heavy at times with accumulations 40mm to 60mm developing quite widely. Across high ground totals during this event could exceed 100mm. Strong south westerly winds are also possible at times.”
What should I expect?
- There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
- There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life
- Where flooding occurs, there is a chance of delays or cancellations to train and bus services
- Spray and flooding will lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
- There is a small chance that some communities will become cut off by flooded roads
- There is a slight chance of power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses
The amber weather warning says persistent rainfall across North West England will be particularly heavy over parts of Cumbria.
During the course of Sunday and Monday, over 100mm of rainfall is expected to accumulate widely across the warning area. Over 200mm is possible in some locations, particularly in the west of the area.
What should I expect?
- Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life
- Homes and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
- Delays and cancellations to train and bus services are likely
- Spray and flooding will likely lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
- A good chance some communities will be cut off by flooded roads
- Power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses likely
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