Motorists urged to take care in floods

Friday 17th July 2009, 10:12AM BST.

Drivers were today urged to drive with caution if they get caught up in heavy rain in Shropshire and Mid Wales as warnings were made about the risk of localised flooding.

But despite more showers and heavy downpours predicted over the next few days John Warner, Shropshire Star weatherman, said so far the county had escaped the worst of the rain.

South Shropshire was the worst hit yesterday with about an inch of rain.

Mr Warner said: “I think there will be some further heavy downpours today. I think the worst is probably over now.”

He said tomorrow there would be some showers with longer periods of rain in the evening. Mr Warner said: “Sunday looks like being cool and fairly wet. It will be a better day on Monday. It looks pretty unsettled for the next 10 days.

A West Mercia Police spokesman said: “When driving in heavy rain and wet conditions motorists should drive slowly and allow extra room to slow down and stop.

“If there is torrential rain it may cause roads across the force area to flood.

“If you come across a flooded road to do not attempt to cross as you cannot judge how the deep the water will get and what hidden hazards may be under the water.

“Our advice to motorists is to find an alternative route and not to drive through a flood. Six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and 2ft of water will float your car.”

View more: Mid Wales news, Shropshire news.