Essex County Council is urging residents to travel with caution when driving or walking today because flooding and surface water are causing hazardous conditions across the county.

Residents are advised to avoid using flooded roads where possible because the water may be deeper than it looks, and may be concealing a damaged road or other obstruction.

Particular care should be taken when travelling along minor roads. If residents do need to drive through standing water they should do so slowly and steadily, allowing oncoming traffic to pass first. Brakes should be tested after driving through water.

Essex Highways engineers are currently dealing with a number of flooded roads across the county. Residents can check for the latest traffic updates by listening to local radio, or by following the Essex Travel Twitter – www.twitter.com/Essex_Travel.  

Road defects or flooding issues can be reported online by visiting www.essex.gov.uk/highways.

County Councillor Tracey Chapman, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation said: “I am urging all residents to avoid driving or walking through floodwater, as it could be more dangerous than it appears. We are working flat out across the county to deal with flooding issues today, so please continue to travel with care at this time.”