A Flood Alert was issued for Lower River Ribble and Darwen in Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire on 3rd September 2026. Affected watercourses included the River Ribble, River Darwen.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The River Ribble at Ribchester School rose 1.43m, peaking at 1.42m, while the River Ribble at Walton-Le-Dale climbed 1.25m.
Environment Agency advice issued
High river levels overnight may lead to flooding. Flooding is possible from the evening of 03 September 2026 as persistent rain will raise river levels. Locations most affected will be low lying land and roads near rivers. We are closely monitoring the situation . Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water . This message will be updated by 10:00AM on 04 September 2026 or as the situation changes.
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ribchester School | River Ribble | +1.43m | 1.42m |
| Walton-Le-Dale | River Ribble | +1.25m | 1.19m |
| New Jumbles Rock | River Ribble | +0.84m | 1.12m |
| Ewood | River Darwen | +0.51m | 0.78m |
| Blackburn Waterfall | River Darwen | +0.46m | 0.84m |
| Samlesbury | River Ribble | +0.36m | 1.29m |
| Blue Bridge | River Darwen | +0.30m | 0.52m |
| Hardman Way | River Darwen | +0.18m | 0.22m |