Shrewsbury was hit in 2000 and it is getting ready for flooding again

Those living alongside the River Severn have been warned to prepare for problems in the next 24 hours.

The river has already overflowed its banks in Ironbridge. Temporary barriers have been put up there, in Worcester, and in Severnside North, Bewdley.

High water levels in Wales have helped to flag up problems along the Severn in Shropshire and Worcestershire, and the Wye in Herefordshire.

On Thursday evening, the Environment Agency said the river was still rising and is expected to peak overnight and into Friday.

In Ironbridge, it is predicted the river will peak between 4.9m (16ft) and 5.1m (16.7ft) above the normal winter level of 1.2m (3.9ft) on Thursday evening.

Two rescued

The Wharfage was closed all day as were two car parks in Shrewsbury - Frankwell and St Julians Friars.

Both the English and Welsh bridge routes into the town were still passable. Drivers are being advised to use the park and ride scheme.

The water is expected to peak in the Bridgnorth area overnight and the district council said it had sandbags ready if the position worsens.

In Worcestershire, levels on the Severn are expected to peak on Friday.

The stretch along Diglis Basin in Worcester could reach 4.6m (15ft) above the normal winter level of 0.9m.

In Bewdley, it is expected to peak at between 3.9m (12.8ft) and 4.3m(14.1ft) above the normal level of 1.1m (3.6ft)

Some minor roads remained flooded in Hereford on Thursday, but all main routes were accessible.