A Flood Alert was issued for Lower River Ribble and Darwen in Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire on 4th 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 1.86m, peaking at 1.86m, while the River Ribble at Samlesbury climbed 1.72m.
Environment Agency advice issued
There is no longer a threat of flooding, though standing water and debris may still remain. Weather conditions are expected to improve and no further flooding is expected. We will continue to monitor the situation and will issue further alerts or warnings if necessary. If you have been evacuated only return to your property once the emergency services have advised that it is safe to do so. Never drive through flood water, just 30cm of fast flowing water is enough to move your car.
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ribchester School | River Ribble | +1.86m | 1.86m |
| Samlesbury | River Ribble | +1.72m | 2.65m |
| Walton-Le-Dale | River Ribble | +1.57m | 1.51m |
| New Jumbles Rock | River Ribble | +1.02m | 1.32m |
| Blue Bridge | River Darwen | +0.63m | 0.85m |
| Ewood | River Darwen | +0.51m | 0.78m |
| Blackburn Waterfall | River Darwen | +0.45m | 0.84m |
| Hardman Way | River Darwen | +0.18m | 0.22m |