Agencies across Cumbria said they were continuing to work together to ensure they are in position to respond effectively to incidents resulting from heavy and persistent rainfall forecast across the county.
The response from the county’s Local Resilience Forum remains at standby to a major incident.
An amber weather warning for rain remains in place for West Cumbria and central and western Lake District until 6pm tomorrow, and a yellow weather warning for rain is in place for all of the county, also until 6pm tomorrow.
The current forecast is likely to lead to difficult driving conditions, wider travel disruption, possible power outages and potential flooding of homes and businesses.
Residents are asked to:
- Consider their travel plans, allowing extra time for journeys and to determine whether travel is necessary during adverse conditions. If you must travel during this time do so with caution – pack your car with essentials, plan your route, and listen to travel updates.
- Speak to vulnerable relatives, friends, and neighbours – advise them and ensure they are prepared in case of power outages.
- Do not drive through flood water if coming across flooding – take an alternative route.
- Check your torch batteries, radio and try to ensure phones are charged up in advance of the worst-affected times.
Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick, of Cumbria Constabulary, is chairing the Local Resilience Forum response.
He said: “Agencies across Cumbria are continuing to closely monitor the potential impact of the heavy and prolonged rainfall which is forecast until tomorrow evening in Cumbria.
“It is highly likely that road conditions will be challenging later this evening and throughout the night and into tomorrow morning due to likely surface water flooding.
“We urge motorists to plan for any journey they need to make. Please travel with caution, slow down, and do not attempt to travel through flood water should you come across this on Cumbria’s road network.
“The Met Office’s weather warnings state that flooding is possible.
“Agencies are operating in areas which are at a higher risk, such as Cockermouth, and will be engaging directly and early with those communities who may be risk of flooding.”
Sarah Cook, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: “Environment Agency teams are out on the ground, taking action to reduce the impact of flooding and support those communities affected. We urge people not to drive though flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.”
Floods Minister Emma Hardy said: “I’m in continual contact with the Environment Agency as heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of the north of England, especially Cumbria, today and on Monday.
“We’re co-ordinating with local authorities and emergency services to keep communities safe, and I thank them for their vital work.
“I urge people to follow local advice, sign up for flood warnings, and stay up to date with the latest information.”
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