River levels in Herefordshire and Worcestershire 'to reach peak'

The River Wye in full flood

Flood warnings have been issued for rivers in Herefordshire and Worcestershire with water levels expected to peak later.

The Environment Agency said the River Severn, which burst its banks on Christmas Day, could reach a high of about 4.5 metres after more heavy rain.

Flood warnings are currently in force for stretches of the River Avon, River Teme and River Wye.

The Met Office is forecasting a sunny day with more showers expected later.

John Philpin, from the Environment Agency, said: "The heavy rain that we've had previously through this week has saturated the ground and we're concerned about the impact that may have.

"We need to make sure everyone is prepared because it would only take one severe rain fall to push the flooding situation into something that would be substantial."

'Wet feet'

The Highways Agency reported a number of roads in the area had been closed.

In Herefordshire, they included the A438 Willersley Mill Bank and Jubilee Bridge in Fladbury, while in Worcestershire, Primrose Hill and Yew Tree Lane in Gay Hill, New Street in Upton-on-Severn and Eckington Bridge in Eckington were closed.

Hereford and Worcester Fire Control said they had to rescue a woman from the roof of a car at Yarkhill.

West Mercia Police said its officers had rescued drivers who had tried to drive through floodwaters and become stranded.

Flood warnings were issued for parts of Herefordshire and Worcestershire

Insp Andy Smith said: "Flooded roads can be very dangerous - especially when waters are rising.

"At the least, people are going to get wet feet and in the worst cases you can lose your life."

He said the force had also received calls from people stranded in remote parts of Herefordshire which it had been difficult for officers to get to.

High levels on the River Severn on Wednesday caused the cancellation of the annual Bewdley Duck Race.

Organisers Kidderminster Lions said they hoped to stage the race at Easter.