THE Environment Agency has operated the Foss Barrier in York this morning due to rising levels on the River Ouse following heavy rainfall.

A flood warning, which means flooding is expected, is in force for Naburn Lock.

Earlier flood warnings which were issued for the River Ouse at York riverside properties, and St George`s Field and Queens Staith, have both now been lifted.

The river in central York was expected to rise to between 3.2 metres and 3.5 metres late in the afternoon, according to the Environment Agency.

A spokesperson for the agency said: "Levels will then remain high through the evening, before starting to fall very slowly in the early hours of Friday. Flooding of riverside paths and gardens is expected, and riverside properties are advised to put in place flood plans and protection measures.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and update this message as new forecasts become available."

The two city centre flood warnings were lifted at 7.19pm.

In addition, a number of flood alerts were issued in North Yorkshire, with alerts for the upper River Derwent and the lower River Nidd.

The alerts for the lower River Ure and upper River Nidd are no longer in force.

A flood alert is issued when flooding is possible.