THE River Avon in Bradford on Avon has risen to dangerously high levels today (February 16) due to Storm Dennis.

The rain has caused the river water to overflow and block passage on nearby roads and footpaths.

DORSET and Wiltshire Fire Rescue Service tweeted: "The River Avon around Bradford on Avon is getting very high, some footpaths in town centre already impassable and nearby roads at #Holt cut and #Staverton causeway are closed or virtually impassable. We’re working with @envagency @wiltshirecouncil and local volunteers to monitor the levels. Please take extra care if travelling in this area tonight and heed all warning signs.

The Fire Service are pumping out flood water behind the barrier to save the shops.

BoA TC CEVs tweeted: "18:15hrs report. River level 28.2m AOD and rising. @DWFireRescue & @EnvAgencySW on scene assessing.

"With the water breaching footpaths we've taped access to certain footpaths. It's a warning to keep away."

The Environment Agency said: "We have issued new flood warnings this afternoon for some areas along the River Avon.

We have also issued Groundwater flood warnings in parts of Dorset.

"Please check your flood risk and find out how to prepare at: www.flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/warnings "

Wiltshire Council said: "Expect plenty of surface water and debris on many roads in the morning so please take care and give yourself extra time on your journey.

"Our crews will be solely focusing on the fallout from Storm Dennis tomorrow so please keep them updated on any issues."