THE Met Office has updated its flood alerts for Chester and Ellesmere Port after the heavy rainfall at the start of this year.

River levels are high and flooding is forecast to affect locations near the River Dee.

The amber alert remains in place with low lying land expected to be most affected, particularly around low lying land and roads around the River Dee at Shocklach, Farndon, Handley, Lower Kinnerton, Chester and Puddington.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "We will continue to monitor the forecast and re-issue this alert/warning if necessary.

"Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water."

Updates will be provided if the situation changes.

Meanwhile river levels are also high on the River Gowy due to the rainfall and an amber alert remains in place for this area too.

Flooding is forecast to affect locations near the river, with low lying land expected to be most affected, particularly around low lying land and roads around the River Milton and Hornsmill / Hool, Stanney Mill and Thornton Brooks and their tributaries.

Met Office guidance states that a flood alert means you need to prepare as flooding is possible.

If you have not already done so, you should:

  • sign up for flood warnings
  • keep up to date with the latest flood risk situation - call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood updates.
  • have a bag ready with vital items like insurance documents and medications in case you need to leave your home.
  • check you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.
  • plan how you'll move family and pets to safety.