THE RIVER Severn could potentially reach near to its highest-ever levels when it peaks for a second time later this week.

The River Severn at Pitchcroft (Barbourne) peaked on Wednesday morning at 5.5m but is expected to have a second peak later this week.

On Friday, it could reach as high as 5.7m - close to the highest level ever recorded at the River Severn at Worcester (Barbourne) of 5.79m.

That peak took place on Wednesday, February 26 2020 at 10.30pm.

Flood warnings remain along the river Severn in Worcestershire including at Pitchcroft.

The Environment Agency said: "River levels remain high at the Worcester (Barbourne) river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall.

"We expect flooding to affect properties and roads in and around Pitchcroft.

" Worcester peaked at 5.55m on Wednesday morning.

"A second predicted peak of 5.5m to 5.7m is expected Friday morning (January 5) as a result of additional rainfall within the catchment.

"We expect river levels to remain high over the next few days.

"We are closely monitoring the situation.

"Our incident response staff are checking defences and liaising with emergency services and Local Authorities.

"Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded."

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Flood warnings - warning people to act now - are in effect at Holt Fleet, Hawford Wood and Bevere, north and south Worcester, Kempsey and Severn Stoke.

There are several flood warnings around Upton-upon-Severn too at Dunns Lane, Hanley Road and Hanley Castle.

Flood warnings are also in place on the river Teme at Lower Wick, Bransford, Leigh and Knightwick, Doddenham and Broadwas.

The river Avon also has several flood warnings including at Evesham, Fladbury and Cropthorne, Wyre Piddle, Pershore, Eckington and Strensham.