The River Severn is expected to peak later

West Mercia Police said the accidents took place during the morning after rain left surface water on many roads, some of which then turned to ice.

Drivers leaning out of their cars to take pictures of the floods are adding to the problem, south Worcestershire police said.

There are eight flood warnings on rivers in Herefordshire and Worcs.

Flood barriers also went up in Bewdley, Worcestershire, on Wednesday night.

'Irresponsible actions'

Mike Digger, traffic management advisor for south Worcestershire, said he "could not believe his eyes" when he saw a man with his arm outstretched taking pictures as he drove along the elevated section of the A4440 Temeside Way.

He was "stunned by the man's stupidity", he said.

"Having now seen someone actually do that while driving on a busy road in difficult conditions, I am convinced he will not be alone in his irresponsible actions and there could be others doing it in flooded areas in Malvern Hill, Worcester and Wychavon.

"He is clearly breaking the law, both in terms of using a hand-held mobile phone while in charge of vehicle and not paying attention to what he is doing."

Sgt Robert Haynes of West Mercia's road policing support team, said people needed to drive slowly in wet or icy conditions.

Standing water

In Hereford, the River Wye peaked at 4.76m (15.6ft) during the morning with the water is now moving down stream to Ross-on-Wye.

However, Environment Agency officials warned people the river could also peak in Worcester on Friday.

The River Lugg is also high but is not expected to flood further.

In Hereford city centre a southbound carriageway at the Belmont Roundabout has been coned off due to standing water.

The A4113 Church Road at Leintwardine is closed.

Flood warnings have been placed on the River Wye, between Hay and Ross, the River Severn, between Bevere and Powick and Worcester, and the River Teme, between Ludlow and Powick.

River levels are expected to peak later and barriers remain in place in Worcester and Upton-upon-Severn.

More heavy rain is expected from Thursday and into the weekend.

People are urged to monitor the agency's website or ring its Floodline number 0845 988 1188.