Cumbria, UK on High Alert: Heavy Rain and Flooding Expected This Weekend with Amber and Yellow Warnings in Effect

Published on December 13, 2025

Cumbria is bracing for a significant weather event this weekend, as heavy rain is set to batter the region. Both a yellow rain warning and an amber alert have been issued, signaling the severity of the weather conditions. These warnings highlight the potential risks of flooding, travel disruptions, and hazards to life caused by fast-flowing and deep floodwater.

Yellow and Amber Rain Warnings: What to Expect

The Met Office has issued a yellow rain warning for Cumbria starting at 18:00 GMT on Saturday, lasting through to 18:00 on Monday. This warning indicates that persistent heavy rain is expected, leading to localized flooding and potential travel disruptions. The yellow warning signifies a moderate risk level, where conditions may be hazardous, but the situation is generally manageable for most people.

However, the situation will escalate when the warning turns to an amber alert for some parts of the county on Sunday morning. The amber warning will be in effect from 06:00 to 18:00 on Sunday. This heightened alert reflects the increased intensity of the weather, with the potential for more severe flooding. In some areas, up to 200mm of rain may accumulate, which could cause significant disruptions and pose a real danger to life.

Following this, the amber warning will return on Monday, running from 06:00 to 18:00, bringing further risk of flooding and disruption.

Areas Affected by the Heavy Rain and Flooding Risks

The heavy rainfall and ensuing floods are likely to impact several towns and areas in Cumbria. Workington, Whitehaven, Cockermouth, Keswick, Ambleside, and Windermere are among the towns expected to experience the worst of the rain. These areas are at significant risk of flooding, with the potential for fast-flowing or deep floodwater that could create dangerous conditions for residents and travelers alike.

The Met Office has indicated that over 100mm of rain could fall across the warning area, leading to fast-rising rivers, swollen watercourses, and the possibility of widespread flooding. For some regions under the amber alert, up to 200mm of rain is expected, which could overwhelm flood defences and cause extensive damage. The impact is likely to be severe, particularly in the areas most affected by the amber alert.

Flood Alerts in Place for Specific Areas

In addition to the warnings about heavy rain, the Met Office has also issued two flood alerts in Cumbria. These alerts are designed to give local communities advance notice of areas where flooding is expected, allowing residents to prepare.

• The first flood alert covers the Upper River Derwent, Stonethwaite Beck, and Derwent Water around Keswick. These areas are likely to experience rising water levels and flooding, particularly in vulnerable spots such as roads and low-lying properties.
• The second flood alert is focused on the rivers Brathay, Rothay, and Winster in the Windermere area. With the expected rainfall, these rivers are likely to overflow, affecting the surrounding communities.

These alerts highlight the ongoing risk of flooding, with fast-rising water levels making it crucial for residents and travelers to take precautions.

Travel Disruptions Expected: Motorists and Train Passengers Urged to Stay Alert

As the rain continues to fall heavily over the weekend, travel disruptions are expected to be widespread. Motorists are being advised to exercise extreme caution on the roads, as flooded roads could cause significant delays and hazards. In particular, local roads and bridges may be closed or impassable due to floodwaters, creating serious problems for those trying to travel through affected areas.

The Met Office and Network Rail have both issued statements advising travelers to check conditions before setting out. Darren Miller, the infrastructure director at Network Rail, stressed the importance of staying informed, particularly for those planning to travel by train. Despite rail teams working hard alongside operators to prepare for extreme weather, Miller emphasized that the heavy rainfall could still cause disruptions. Passengers are advised to monitor travel updates closely and plan for potential delays or cancellations.

What to Do: Safety Precautions During Heavy Rain and Flooding

Residents and travelers in Cumbria should take the appropriate measures to stay safe during this period of extreme weather. The following steps can help mitigate the risks posed by heavy rain and flooding:

• Stay informed by checking weather forecasts regularly and following updates from the Met Office and local authorities.
• Avoid travel if possible, especially in areas under amber or flood alerts. If travel is necessary, ensure that routes are clear of flood risks.
• Secure properties by moving valuable items to higher ground and checking flood defences.
• Stay away from fast-flowing rivers or swollen watercourses, as even shallow water can be dangerous.
• Follow any local instructions from emergency services or authorities regarding evacuations or road closures.

By being proactive and cautious, the risk posed by this extreme weather can be minimized.

Looking Ahead: Monitoring Weather Conditions

The situation in Cumbria will continue to evolve as the weekend progresses. While the rain is expected to ease off overnight from Sunday to Monday, the conditions are likely to remain challenging for several days. Travelers are urged to keep checking for updates, especially if they are planning to travel to or from Cumbria.

The Met Office and Environment Agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and issue further updates as necessary. With a focus on minimizing disruptions and ensuring public safety, local authorities are working to manage the impacts of this significant weather event.