Flood alerts and rain warning in place for Shropshire
Flood alerts are in place across Shropshire this morning as a yellow weather warning for rain has been issued for the county.
There are 11 flood warnings across the county, and motorists are advised to plan their routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers.
Warnings have been issued for the River Severn in Shropshire and Worcestershire, for the Ledwyche Brook and River Rea, Rea Brook and Cound Brook, River Lugg, River Sow and River Penk and the River Stour and Smestow Brook.
There are also warnings for the Severn Vyrnwy confluence, the Tern and Perry Catchments, the River Dee Catchment and Upper Teme.
The Environment Agency said: "Further rainfall is forecast over the next 48 hours and we expect river levels to rise as a result over the next couple of days. We are closely monitoring the situation."
The River Severn is affected from Shrewsbury to Upper Arley.
Other locations that may be affected include White Abbey, Gravel Hill Lane in Shrewsbury, Coalbrookdale, Ironbridge and Bridgnorth.
Shrewsbury police tweeted: "The A488 towards Hanwood remains passable but may be slow during 'rush hour', please allow extra time or take an alternative route."
The flood alerts come after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for rain in parts of the county.
Homes and businesses could be flooded, public transport could be delayed and spray and flooding could impact on driving conditions, the Met Office warned.
The warning is in place from 2pm today until midday tomorrow.
Meteorologists said there was the potential for 60mm to 90mm of rain in the run up to the weekend, but that Christmas week could be cold and dry.
