RESIDENTS have been reminded to stay vigilant as Storm Ciara hits Worcestershire.

Worcs Highways and Travel have announced that they have additional staff on standby today, including drainage crews and specialist tree contractors.

People have been asked to report any fallen trees, flash flooding or other highways problems to their Twitter page @WorcsTravel.

The Met Office has warned that it will be very windy and wet today with some “atrocious” travelling conditions at times across the West Midlands.

Highways England traffic officer Dave Harford tweeted: “Yes, #StormCiara has arrived here in Worcester and most of the UK.

"Please DO NOT take risks which in turn would put your rescuers at risk.

"999 crews will be inundated with calls today. Don’t travel unless you MUST."

He added: "With #StormCiara comes rain. Lots of rain = flooding.

"Before entering a flood, remember: 6 inches of water will sweep an adult off feet.

"12 inches of water will float a family car.

"32% of flood related deaths are from drowning in a vehicle."

West Mercia OCC also tweeted yesterday (February 8):

“Windy conditions are forecast. To help prevent damage ensure any items outdoors are secure, trampolines etc. If you have to travel tomorrow, please drive carefully and look out for debris. We expect to be busy, please only call 999 in an emergency. #StormCiara”

New Street flood gates have been shut in Upton.

Here are some of the damages caused so far by the storm:

A tree has fallen across power cables in Bennetts Hill, Evesham.Western Power Distribution are on site.

A fallen tree is blocking half of the A443 between Witley Court and Great Witley village - crews have been notified.

A diversion is in place on the M5 Southbound J7-J8 via Services due to loose gantry.

A tree has fallen in Prince Rupert Road, Worcester, across a property and is blocking the road.

There's a fallen tree on Hanbury Road heading towards Droitwich about half a mile from the bridge under the M5, blocking half of the road.