A Flood Alert was issued for Rivers Kent and Bela in Lancashire, Westmorland and Furness on 12th March 2026. Affected watercourses included the River Kent, River Bela.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The River Mint at Mint Bridge rose 0.89m, peaking at 1.36m, while the River Kent at Sedgwick climbed 0.76m.
Environment Agency advice issued
Rising river levels today may lead to flooding. Flooding is possible on 12 March 2026 . Locations most affected will be low lying land and roads near rivers Kent, Bela and other watercourses, from Kentmere to Silverdale including low lying areas around Staveley, Burneside, Kendal, Milnthorpe and Beetham. We are closely monitoring the situation . Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water . This message will be updated by 8:00AM on 13 March 2026 or as the situation changes.
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Bridge | River Mint | +0.89m | 1.36m |
| Sedgwick | River Kent | +0.76m | 1.30m |
| Beetham Weir | River Bela | +0.67m | 1.03m |
| Victoria Bridge | River Kent | +0.62m | 2.01m |
| Bowston | River Kent | +0.49m | 0.83m |
| Calder Drive, Kendal | Stock Beck | +0.49m | 0.68m |
| Sprint Mill, Kendal | River Sprint | +0.46m | 0.80m |
| Staveley Village | River Gowan | +0.36m | 0.83m |
| Stock Beck, Jewsons Yard | Stock Beck | +0.22m | 0.49m |