The gale‑force winds and heavy rain from Storm Dave blew away pitch covers and knocked over scaffolding at the Banks Home Riverside ground in Chester‑le‑Street, leaving the wicket water‑logged. The ground was closed to spectators for safety, and a 3.40 pm inspection found one end too damp, so the match was called off.
Durham had led 221 runs after 83 for 2 on Saturday, with Emilio Gay’s century and a 335 first‑innings total. Kent were bowled out for 197. The cancellation means the teams will need to decide how to secure points in the remaining fixtures.