THE Dartford Bridge has closed until 4am tomorrow morning as rain and wind sweeps Essex.

The bridge shut at midday today with vehicles diverted through the east bore tunnel due to the heavy rain and high winds, which could reach 80mph.

Queues are currently backing up to J29 with delays of 30 minutes.

The worst of the weather is expected tomorrow morning before 7am with many Christmas travellers likely to be delayed on roads, with train services also affected.

Delays on the M25 have been added to by queues around Lakeside as shoppers look to grab a last minute bargain.