A flood alert has been issued for communities across north Cumbria.

The Environment Agency has issued the alert for the Rivers Caldew and Petteril from the Lakeland fells to their confluences with the River Eden in Carlisle.

Heavy rainfall is expected from midnight.

Areas where the alert applies include:

  • Greystoke
  • Newton Reigny
  • Plumpton
  • Stockdalewath
  • Sedbergham
  • Denton Holme

An alert has also been issued for the Rivers Brathay, Rothay and Winster and south Cumbria.

The Environment Agency said: "Heavy and persistent rainfall is forecast to arrive in Cumbria just before midnight, and is due to continue through Wednesday before clearing by mid-afternoon.

"Potentially significant rainfall accumulations are possible over high ground, which will be accompanied by strong winds.

"River and lake levels are expected to rise from early Wednesday morning and through Wednesday daytime as a result of the forecast rainfall, which could result in localised flooding of low lying land and roads.

"Given the time of year and the strong winds forecast, the risk of blockages on watercourses and drainage systems from falling leaf litter and branches is increased.

"Environment Agency operational teams have been clearing blockages on watercourses in preparation throughout Tuesday.

"Environment Agency duty officers are monitoring rainfall, river and lake levels closely.

"We will update this message with updated forecast information in due course."