Crews respond as Storm Henk arrives in Essex

A picture of Councillor Tom Cunningham wearing an orange high-visibility jacket and white hard-hat

Essex Highways' crews have been working extremely hard over the past 24 hours dealing with the impact of Storm Henk on Essex. 

On Tuesday and Wednesday we received more than 450 weather related enquiries, including reports of flooding, wind damage and more. 

In the 24 hours to 11am on Wednesday, we received around 800 enquiries in total. This is more than four times the amount seen over the same time period in early December. 

Our tree surgeon partners mobilised 12 crews overnight on Tuesday and attended more than 75 fallen trees across Essex. They have continued to attend incidents throughout Wednesday 

Working with our partners, including UK Power Networks, we are clearing any issues as quickly as possible in order to get the roads across Essex moving safely again as soon as possible.

We would like to thank residents of Essex for their patience and remind them to take care when travelling on the roads in wet or windy conditions.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said: 

I want to pay tribute to Essex Highways staff, who have worked very hard in difficult conditions to help keep our county’s roads moving safely following the arrival of Storm Henk.

I would also like to thank residents of Essex for their patience whilst we have dealt with any incidents or obstructions on the roads.

It is important residents take care when travelling on the roads in wet or windy conditions and I would urge them to take care over the coming days with more rain expected.

Residents can report issues to us online, or by calling 0345 758 5592 if there is a risk to safety.