Parts of Southend seafront are under water this afternoon after a tidal surge brought flooding to south Essex.

Experts had warned high tide would pose a risk of flooding along parts of the coast due to strong winds. 

Photos from the seafront taken by Adam Chesham and Steve Power show the tide has brought water up beaches and even onto roads in Southend and Westcliff.

The Environment Agency has a flood warning in place until 4.45pm today. 

It covers coastal roads and footpaths between Leigh and Shoebury.

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There are also reports of flooding at Benfleet Yacht Club.

The Thames Barrier, which helps protect London from flooding, is closed between 12.45pm – 8.45pm today in response to the expected tidal surge caused by Storm Franklin.

Echo:

It is only the 206th time the barrier has been closed since it was first used in 1983.

The Thames Barrier is the second largest flood defence barrier in the world, built over a 520m wide stretch of the Thames near Woolwich in south London.