Weather warning for Southend and south Essex - flooding likely

The yellow weather warning is in place from 2am on Thursday until 6am on Friday and covers the whole of south Essex, including Southend and Basildon.

The Met Office has warned that bus and train services are likely to be delayed and that motorists could be affected by spray and flooding on roads.

“Flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible,” it added.

What is the latest weather forecast for Southend and south Essex?

The Met Office says: “A couple of bands of rain, heavy in places, will push northwards across southern England and south Wales during Thursday and early on Friday.

“Whilst a drier interlude is likely for a time during the middle part of Thursday, many places in the warning area will see 15-25mm of rain accumulate during this period.

“However, some higher ground areas of southern England and south Wales could see as much as 35-45mm of rain.”

How can I prepare for flooding?

The Met Office has suggested people in homes at risk of flooding should “consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit”.

Forecasters said: “Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

“Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”

North and mid Essex, including Chelmsford, Braintree, and Colchester, are not included in the weather warning area.