MOTORISTS were caught out today when the River Ouse rose above its banks in York city centre.

A couple of cars parked on Queen's Staith fell victim to the rising waters.

The Environment Agency has issued a number of Floodwatch warnings, with the North Yorkshire Moors, Nidderdale and Wharfedale and the Vale of York at risk.

Weather forecasters predict that downpours will continue over the weekend, with York hit particularly hard tomorrow afternoon.

Gusts of 60 to 65mph swept York and North Yorkshire today, along with rain.

Passengers were stranded on a ferry which ran aground in gale force winds.

The Dieppe to Newhaven Sardinia Vira vessel was blown on to a sandbank as it approached Newhaven harbour at 8.30am.

The 17 passengers and 55 crew on board were stuck for two hours.

Updated: 15:37 Friday, February 01, 2002