RIVER levels in Bewdley are expected to rise higher than ever before this week, according to Environment Agency predictions.

The River Severn is now predicted to reach 5.64m in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The highest level ever recorded in the town was 5.56m in November 2000.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Environment Agency predictions for the River Severn in BewdleyEnvironment Agency predictions for the River Severn in Bewdley

Dave Throup, Environment Agency manager for Worcestershire, posted on Twitter earlier today: "At Bewdley where the Severn is absolutely flying up. Defences deployed.

"Now expecting a peak higher than last week sometime late tomorrow or Wednesday."

Bewdley bridge, Stourport Road and the B4194 Switchback are closed.

Flood warnings are in place for Bewdley, Blackstone and Stourport, Northwood, Upper Arley, and Sandy Lane and Severnside in Stourport.

The River Severn in Bewdley is currently measuring at around 4.48m. The river last peaked at 5.24m on Wednesday, February 19.

Flooding of property, farmland and roads is possible from 5pm this evening.

The Environment Agency is warning people to plan driving routes and avoid low-lying roads near rivers.