Update on river levels for the River Severn and tributaries

Further to my note last week, river levels remain elevated along the Severn and tributaries. Yesterday saw 20-30mm of rain fall on the Welsh mountains which has meant a slight rise in river levels in and around Shrewsbury. Levels have risen in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire but remain steady. We have flood warnings and watches in force but are currently not expecting any significant rises as we head towards the weekend. A band of rain this evening is predicted between 2100 and midnight which may deliver another 20-30mm. Again this should have no significant affect other than to prolong high levels.

You may have heard reports on news media this morning that claim we have concerns about the River Severn "bursting its banks". To put minds at rest and be clear, at this point we have no concerns about the situation and our reporting of this has not changed over the last few days.  At present the event remains a normal winter event. Obviously, with the tragic and unprecedented rainfall in the North West, public concern and media interest is heightened.

Flood warnings

(Flooding of homes and businesses is expected. Act now.)

Shropshire: River Severn at Shrewsbury

Flood watches

(Flooding of low lying land and roads is expected. Be aware, be prepared, watch out.)

Powys: Upper Severn in Powys

Powys: Vyrnwy Catchment

Powys, Shropshire: Severn Vyrnwy Confluence

Shropshire: River Severn in Shropshire

Worcestershire: River Severn in Worcestershire

Gloucestershire: River Severn in Gloucestershire

Flood barriers in place

Shrewsbury: Frankwell barriers phase 1 have been put up

Upton-upon-Severn: 1st phase barriers are in place. The 2nd phase barriers are unlikely to be required but we will review this again tomorrow

Bewdley: Severn Side North barriers have been erected


Forecast for the rest of the week

Unsettled conditions will require the need to remain vigilant. The forecast for Wednesday until Friday is for isolated blustery showers leading to heavy downpours in some parts of the Severn catchment. Saturday may bring more prolonged rainfall between 5-20mm to Welsh mountains and the Midlands region, though there is a low confidence in the location and intensity of this rain at this time.


Further details

For your constituents the Floodline number is 0845 988 11 88. There is more information on flooding on our website www.environment-agency.gov.uk