THE River Avon’s ability to withstand the threat of flooding could be tested by more rain forecast for the next few days.

Flooding in Evesham and Pershore has generally only affected low-lying land and the usual roads and fords so far but the Flood Warning Information Service (FWIS) still has an active flood alert for the Avon, which warns the public to “be prepared”.

And with the Met Office forecasting heavy rain through last night (Wednesday) into today (Thursday) in particular, and more in patches over Friday and Saturday, residents will be braced for the prospect of problems.

The latest FWIS statement read: “River levels remain high but are now beginning to fall at the Evesham and Bredon river gauges.

“Flooding of roads and farmland continues. Flooding is affecting low-lying land and roads adjacent the River Avon from Abbotts Salford to Tewkesbury.

“Other locations that may be affected include Offenham, Evesham, Twyning and the Eckington Road. Mill Bank Road from Jubilee Bridge to Fladbury is impacted.

“Evesham river gauge peaked at 2.67m and Bredon river gauge peaked at 2.96m on Friday morning (January 22).

"Further rainfall is forecast over the next 24 hours. We will monitor for any further impacts. We are closely monitoring the situation.

"Our incident response staff are checking defences. Please plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded."

Farther down, the River Windrush heading into the Cotswolds is also carrying a flood alert.

It reads: "Property flooding is not currently expected. River levels are steady on the River Windrush following recent rainfall and flooding of low-lying land, footpaths and roads is expected to continue, especially in the areas around Bourton-on-the-Water and Standlake.

"Light rain may continue in some areas for the rest of this morning (Thursday). A further band of heavier showers is forecast across the area from this evening and overnight.

"River levels are steady but will be sensitive to further rainfall this week and therefore still pose a flood risk.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are in the area clearing weed and trash screens. Please remain safe and aware of your local surroundings and avoid contact with flood water."