A FLOOD alert has been issued for one area of Herefordshire after heavy rain, with more forecast over the next 48 hours.

Issuing the alert for the river Lugg south of Leominster, meaning flooding is possible, the Environment Agency said homes and businesses were not expected to flood "at this point".

It said river levels were high but steady at the Lugwardine river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall and flooding of roads and farmland would be possible today (Wednesday).

OTHER NEWS:

It expects flooding to affect low-lying land and roads adjacent to the river Lugg south of Leominster from Stoke Prior to Mordiford.

Other locations that may be affected include Bodenham, Lugwardine and Hampton Bishop.

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The alert, the lowest of the three flood warnings that can be issued by the government agency said: "Flooding of properties is not forecast at this point. Further light rainfall is forecast over the next 48 hours.

"We expect river levels to remain high in the coming days. We are closely monitoring the situation.

Our incident response staff are checking defences and liaising with emergency services."

OTHER NEWS:

Drivers have been told to avoid low-lying roads near the river which may be flooded and they have been told to call 999 if they're in immediate danger.

When a flood alert is issued, people affected should pack a bag ready to leave their homes, check they know how to turn off gas, electric and water supplies and plan how to move family and pets to safety.

According to the Met Office, light rain is expected in Hereford this evening, with more rain after 11am on Thursday.

UPDATE: The Environment Agency has also issued a flood alert for the river Leadon catchment.

Places that may be affected include Ledbury, Much Marcle, Staunton and Tibberton. Water may be over the bank at Upleadon Court.