A FLOOD alert is in place for areas in and around Chester following heavy rainfall.

River levels are high and expected to rise on the River Dee due to heavy rainfall yesterday (Thursday, March 28) afternoon and into the evening.

Areas most at risk include low lying land and roads around the River Dee at Shocklach, Farndon, Handley, Lower Kinnerton, Chester and Puddington.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Further rainfall is forecast over the next few days and we expect river levels to remain high.

"Flooding is forecast to affect locations near the River Dee, 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.

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

"Our incident response staff are closely monitoring weather forecasts and river levels and will issue flood warnings if necessary. Please be aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with the current situation. This message will be updated by 10:30 AM tomorrow, 29/03/2024, or as the situation changes."

Flood alert area: River Dee in England covers areas around Shocklach, Farndon, Handley, Lower Kinnerton, Chester and Puddington.