MOTORISTS are being urged to drive with care as heavy rain is causing flooding across south Essex.

Drivers are facing heavy delays along the A127 due to flooding at the Fairglen Interchange where it meets the A130.

 

The roundabout beneath the A127 was totally blocked at one point and a woman had to be rescued from a car stuck in the deep water.

A spokesman for Essex HIghways said: "Due to the high level of rainfall the drainage pumps were prevented from working effectively.

" These pumps should now be operating again to clear the flooding at this location.

"Essex Highways operatives are currently undertaking works at this location which involve the upgrading of water drainage pumps and other associated drainage improvements.

“Works have already been undertaken to improve the gully system on the A127. This area will continue to be looked at on an ongoing basis regarding future improvements to the gully system to help reduce the amount of surface water caused by high levels of rainfall.”

There is also congestion on the Southend-bound carriageway at Halfway House and the Rayleigh Weir.

One motorist said: "I've been trying to get off the A130 for twenty minutes, but it's at a standstill."

Watery Lane in Hullbridge was closed just before 8am in both directions between Beeches Road and Hullbridge Road due to flooding while several other routes around Hockley and Hullbridge are struggling to cope with the rainfall.

The A129 between Billericay and Brentwood is also flooded. Traffic is starting to ease but there is still standing water.

There are also long delays on the A129 through Rayleigh and the A132 through Wickford.

The River Crouch from Noak Bridge to Runwell, including Wickford, is at risk of flooding. The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning.

A statement on its website reads: "River levels have risen rapidly this morning in response to the overnight rain. The forecast if for continued showers during Friday, and into Saturday morning which may be heavy at times. We are continuing to monitor the situation."

Bus users are suffering some delays to services. Service 15a is delayed due to congestion along route.

Service 5 and 25 are subject to some disruption due to vehicle issues. 

Police are reminding motorists to take extra care this morning with the heavy rain.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Drivers should slow down and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. When driving through flood water choose a low gear and do not attempt it if the water is fast flowing or too deep. Driving too fast, even in relatively shallow water can cause water to be ingested into the engine.

"Drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a large bow wave.Test your brakes as soon as you leave the water."