HYLTON Road, in Worcester, is to be closed for two hours this evening from 7pm to 9pm, to allow Severn Trent Water to install pumps that accompany the flood barriers, the council says.

The work comes as the Environment Agency issues a 'be prepared' statement that flooding is possible.

Diversion signs will be put in place to divert traffic along Henwick Road. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained at all times.

The Environment Agency has been giving flood warnings for the Midlands areas which have been on alert since yesterday.

Today, Thursday, the flood gate at New Street, Upton, was closed after the level of the Severn Severn rose substantially.

Water came up over the section of the road just outside the town, as water made its way downriver following heavy rain in Wales.

The agency said that the water level at Saxons Lode, just outside Upton, was 3.07 metres and rising. A peak level between four and four-and-half metres is expected to occur Saturday morning.

Low-lying land and roads could be affected, including vehicular access to Dunn’s Lane, Upton.

Official flood warning information from the Environment Agency gives river levels and their expected peak times.

At Bewdley a peak level between 3.75 and 4.25 metres is expected to occur on Friday afternoon. On Saturday morning the peak levels are expected to be between 4.1 and 4.6 metres in Worcester; 3.60 and 4.10 metres at Diglis; 4.7 metres and rising at Kempsey Yacht between 4 and 4.5 metres at Saxon's Lodge.