GWENT will continue to be battered by torrential rain and strong winds today.

As Monmouthshire was put on amber alert by the Met Office Ebbw Vale weatherman Jonathan Powell, of Vantage Weather Solutions, said the severe weather warning, issued over the weekend, remain in place with more rain predicted this morning and throughout the day amounting to as much as three inches.

He said wind gusts are expected to touch gale force to severe gale force leading to the possibility of minor structural damage.

Among the worst hit areas are Llanfoist, near Abergavenny, Newbridge and the fields around Usk.

In Llanfoist a bench has been washed away, trees are down and debris washed up on the embankment at Castle Meadows.

The A4042 between the Hardwick roundabout and Llanellen, which was closed to traffic on Sunday, re-opened to traffic on Monday.

In Usk, Town Councillor Jill Jerimiah, whose home overlooks the River Usk, said the water reached the river path and rose to about nine foot.

She said: "It's the highest it has ever been this winter but is the fastest emptying river from source to mouth so is dropping quickly."

Yesterday the Argus featured the Welfare Ground at Newbridge RFC which was completely submerged under water. There are flood alerts on the River Wye and Monnow.

Graham Hillier, from Environment Agency Wales said: "Our teams have been working around the clock over the weekend to keep our rivers clear and to make sure that flood defences remain in good condition ahead of further rainfall.

"With more rain on the way, we're advising people to take precautions and be on their guard for flooding.

"Anyone concerned about flooding in their area can phone Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit our website for advice on how to prepare or to find out if free flood warnings are available in their area."

For the latest information visit http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood ends