Severe flood warnings in place in Shropshire as defences could be breached
Water levels at the River Severn are continuing to rise
Last updated 23rd Feb 2022
Flood warnings are in place across Shropshire, as the River Severn continues to rise, breaching some flood defences.
There are currently two severe flood warnings in place in Shropshire, and the public are being advised to stay away from the river if possible.
Severe flood warnings mean that there is a clear and present danger to life, with flooding set to overtop defence mechanisms.
River levels are expected to peak at Ironbridge later today, with the worst of the flooding expected in Bewdley in the evening.
However, emergency workers from Telford and Wrekin Council are trying to pump the flood water away from towns and settlements in order to reduce the impact to life.
Shropshire is struggling to recover after three weather systems - Storms Dudley, Eunice and Franklin - battered the country over the past week.
As a result, flood defences in the area set up following devastating floods in 2000 are set to be breached.
West Mercia Police operating in the area have advised that people living close to flood-risk areas should evacuate.
Speaking about the warnings, Chief Inspector Mark Reilly from West Mercia Police said: "he Environment Agency has advised the flood warning for Ironbridge has been raised to a Severe Flood Warning, meaning there is a danger to life, due to the risk of the water levels of the River Severn overtopping the barriers.
“We are continuing to work with our partner agencies, including Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, Telford & Wrekin Council and Shropshire Council, and the Environment Agency to minimise the impact on local residents with their safety our utmost priority.
"If you have been advised to evacuate, I would urge you to do so," he added.