THE Environment Agency has confirmed river levels on the Severn Vyrnwy Confluence have started to rise again.

The area, which includes Llanymynech, Maesbrook and Melverley, has been on alert for a week following days of heavy rainfall.

On Thursday, January 6, the EA had said levels were dropping.

But today, Friday, January 7, they are rising again.

A spokesperson said: "River levels remain high and have started to rise again at the Cae Howel river gauge following recent rainfall. Consequently, flooding of roads and farmland may re-occur this afternoon, Friday.

"We expect flooding to affect low lying land and roads adjacent to the river from the Welsh border at Llawnt to Shrawardine near Shrewsbury. Other locations that may be affected include Llanymynech, Maesbrook and Melverley.

"At 9:30am today, the level at the Cae Howel gauge was 3.2m and rising. Further rain is forecast over the next few days and river levels are forecast to rise as a result. We are closely monitoring the situation."

The EA also predicted peaks in Llanymnech of between 3.3 to 3.7m on Saturday evening, and at Cae Howel of 4 to 4.4m on Sunday morning."

They added: "Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded."

A further update is expected on Saturday morning or if the situation changes.