FLOOD warnings have been issued as river levels rise near Oswestry villages.

The Environment Agency increased the status of the River Vyrnwy at Maesbrook and Melverley, including Melverley Green, earlier today (Wednesday, January 4) from a flood alert to a flood warning following days of heavy rainfall.

A flood alert for the Severn Vyrnwy Confluence further downstream at Crew Green is also in place.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "Flooding is expected in this area. This means properties are at risk of flooding. Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions.

"Avoid contact with, walking or driving through flood water. Consider activating any property flood protection products you may have."

A flood warning is given when flooding is expected and as a warning to those affected to act now to protect themselves and their property.

According to GaugeMap, the flood channel at Maesbrook is at 1.405 metres and rising sharply, while the River Severn at Crew Green is at 5.432m and rising.

Other flood warnings have been issued over the border by Natural Resources Wales after river levels rose at the Vyrnwy in Llansantffraid and Llanymynech, however the former is no longer in force.