River Ouse levels in York to peak on Friday after flooding

Footpaths next to River Ouse, including at King’s Staith and South Esplanade, were under water this morning.

At 10am the river was at 2.69m on the Viking Recorder – the top of its normal range is 1.9m.

Three flood warnings are in place for the Ouse in York, affecting Naburn Lock, St George’s Field Carpark and Queen Staith, as well as riverside properties through the city from Millenium Bridge to Lendal Bridge.

“The Foss Barrier is operating on Friday and we have staff checking and closing riverside floodgates where required,” an Environment Agency spokesperson said.

“Start acting on your flood plan if you have one.

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

• Homes flooded in North Yorkshire - emergency crews called in

The Environment Agency expects the Ouse to peak at 2.92m at 4pm then start to fall, returning to within its normal range by the early hours of tomorrow.

A yellow weather warning for rain in York was stood down by the Met Office today.