RESIDENTS are being warned about the dangers of flood water as the rain continues to pour on the region.

And motorists are being urged to use caution as downpour causes flooding.

Barriers have been erected in Bewdley, Upton-Upon-Severn and Worcester as a precaution.

A rest centre was set up at Tenbury on Friday, which two members of the public used, but later closed down yesterday evening. But officials say the flooding being experienced, so far, is nowhere near as bad as that in July 2007 and is expected to improve as the weekend progresses West Mercia police, the fire service, Environment Agency, and county councils, are continuing to monitoring the situation.

Chief Superintendent Viv Howells of West Mercia Constabulary said: “We are continuing to monitor the situation, and are liaising closely with our partner organisations. Some localised flooding is being experienced and there is a large amount of surface water on the roads. However, there is no cause for major concern.”

Motorists are reminded that when driving in heavy rain and wet conditions they should drive slowly and allow extra room to slow down and stop.

They are advised not to drive through flooded roads or fords as it is impossible to judge how the deep the water is. Two feet of water will float a car.

Pedestrians should not walk through flooded areas. Six inches of fast flowing water is enough to knock a person off their feet and there may be hidden dangers such as open drains, damaged road surfaces, or submerged debris.

Children should not be allowed to play in flood-water, which can become contaminated with sewage and chemicals.

During flooding the emergency services will be very busy. Only call for immediate assistance if there is a risk to life or of serious property or environmental damage.

* For further information call the Flood Line on 0845 988 1188 or visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk * For information about what to do before and after a flood strikes visit the Environment Agency website www.environment-agency.gov.uk * For travel advice visit www.highways.gov.uk * Details of Worcestershire roads affected by flooding are on the Worcestershire County Council website at www.worcestershire.whub.org.uk