THE levels of the River Ouse have started to drop, but flood warnings remain in place with unsettled weather forecast for over the weekend.

This morning (April 6), the level of the Ouse in York was 3.4 metres above normal summer levels and yesterday the river was at 3.6 metres.

The Environment Agency said it is likely that levels will remain above 3 metres today.

The Met Office said today will be a fine, dry and bright day across the region with a maximum temperature of 13C.

The forecast for the region tomorrow is a cloudy day with spells of heavy rain spreading north during the morning. Rain is expected to ease from western areas during the afternoon. There will be a maximum temperature of 11C.

Sunday is expected to be fairly cloudy with rain likely and a maximum temperature of 12C.

Flood warnings are in place for the Ouse at York riverside properties, the Ouse at St George`s Field and Queen`s Staith and the Ouse at Naburn Lock, south of York.

Warnings are also in force for the River Derwent at Buttercrambe Mill and the Derwent at Stamford Bridge, with The Weir Caravan Park and Kexby Bridge the areas of concern.

Meanwhile, less severe flood alerts are in place for the Upper River Ouse in and around York and the Lower River Nidd, with the alert area covering Tockwith and Moor Monkton.

There is an alert in place for the Tidal River Wharfe. The area covered by the alert includes Tadcaster.

An alert is also in force for the Tidal River Ouse, and the area covered by the alert includes Selby.

In addition, there is an alert in place for the Lower River Derwent as levels remain high around Buttercrambe, Elvington, Stamford Bridge and all low lying land along the riverside.

The EA said an alert remains in place for the River Rye due to high levels around Howe Bridge near Malton.

An alert for the Upper River Derwent also remains in force due to high river levels on the River Rye at Howe Bridge and the River Derwent at Malton.

North Yorkshire County Council has confirmed that Dalton Bridge near Thirsk was reopened this morning. It had been closed due to high river levels.

Meanwhile, the C177 at Buttercrambe Bridge has been closed due to flooding of the road.