A FLOODED Rochford road is "flooding" vehicles and causing them to break down, a councillor has warned, as she urges drivers to "avoid the route".

The road under the railway bridge at Rectory Road in Hawkwell is flooded and has been closed by Essex Highways this morning. However, a councillor says drivers are still attempting to get through.

Julie Gooding, councillor for Hawkwell West, said: "I strongly urge people to avoid this route and take an alternative way around. Be careful - it’s not worth damaging your engine.

Echo: Flooding under the railway bridge is 'approximately 18 inches deep'.Flooding under the railway bridge is 'approximately 18 inches deep'. (Image: Submitted)

"The road is officially closed. Some cars have tried to get through the flooding which is much higher that the footpath, at approximately 18 inches deep. 

"People don’t realise that the road dips down, so it doesn’t look deep at the edge of the bridge but as the vehicle gets under the bridge, it’s a lot deeper."