A Flood Alert was issued for Rivers Kent and Bela in Lancashire, Westmorland and Furness on 24th 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 1.08m, peaking at 1.46m, while the River Kent at Sedgwick climbed 1.06m.
Environment Agency advice issued
Rising river levels today may lead to flooding. Flooding is possible on 24 March 2026 . The rain will continue today and into this evening when it will clear Cumbria from midnight. 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 10:00AM on 25 March 2026 or as the situation changes
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Bridge | River Mint | +1.08m | 1.46m |
| Sedgwick | River Kent | +1.06m | 1.48m |
| Bowston | River Kent | +0.85m | 1.07m |
| Victoria Bridge | River Kent | +0.83m | 2.13m |
| Beetham Weir | River Bela | +0.83m | 1.19m |
| Sprint Mill, Kendal | River Sprint | +0.69m | 0.91m |
| Calder Drive, Kendal | Stock Beck | +0.65m | 0.81m |
| Staveley Village | River Gowan | +0.56m | 0.95m |
| Stock Beck, Jewsons Yard | Stock Beck | +0.24m | 0.50m |
| Whitbarrow Close | Stock Beck | +0.06m | 0.08m |