WORCESTER residents may have to brace themselves for the possibility of more flooding on Friday, despite the current drop in the level of the Severn.

The river has dropped in the past two days, but flood defence barriers will stay up in preparation for a weekend peak.

On Monday, we reported that the level had peaked at more than 13ft 6ins, which was 11ft higher than usual winter levels.

Both the New Road cricket ground and Pitchcroft racecourse were flooded, as were parts of Waterworks Road and Diglis Avenue.

However, the level dropp-ed to just under 13ft yesterday and has continued to fall.

Environment Agency staff have predicted the level may again rise above 13ft 6 ins by Friday, but say that it is too early to say exactly how high it will reach.

An agency spokeswoman said that as barriers along Hylton Road might be needed again they would stay up.

A warning that homes and businesses could be flooded was lifted by the agency on Monday evening.

The city's flood status was downgraded to flood watch, with only low-lying land and roads likely to be affected.

In Bewdley, the water level had also dropped yesterday, but another surge in water levels is expected today.

Worcester News weatherman Paul Damari has predicted more rain for Friday and said weather patterns suggested the risk of flooding could continue into the Christmas period.

Anyone worried about flooding should call the floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk