THE EVIRONMENT Agency has issued the first flood warnings of the autumn for the Forest of Dean, with residents in Brockweir and along the Wye Estuary being told to take action as water levels rise.

A red Flood Warning which means flooding is expected, act now, was issued this afternoon (Wednesday, September 10) for the Wye Estuary at Brockweir, on the Gloucestershire–Monmouthshire border.

It warns that properties, farmland and roads around the village may be impacted overnight into Thursday.

The warning comes as high spring tides are forecast to peak between 10PM tonight and 10.15AM tomorrow (Thursday, September 11).

The Environment Agency said that while the highest risk is around these times, flooding could also occur a few hours either side.

A second Flood Warning has been issued for the Wye Estuary at Elmdale, Chepstow, with properties and roads there also at risk of flooding.

In addition, a wider Flood Alert meaning flooding is possible, be prepared remains in force for the Wye Estuary in Gloucestershire, stretching from Redbrook down to Chepstow.

The latest level for the River Wye at Lydbrook earlier today was 0.92 metres, well below the property flooding threshold of 5.70 metres, forecasters warn this could rise significantly as tides surge.

The Environment Agency is urging people in affected areas to avoid using low-lying footpaths near rivers and estuaries, and to plan driving routes carefully to steer clear of flooded roads.

A spokesperson said: “We are closely monitoring the situation. Please take action to protect yourselves and your property if you are in the affected areas, and stay away from flood water wherever possible.”

The flood warnings will remain in place until at least tomorrow afternoon, with the next official update expected by 1PM on Thursday, September 11.