Fantasy Island Canvey outdoor fun park closed by heavy rain

The outdoor fun park at Fantasy Island on Canvey seafront, has been shut today (Thursday, August 27), due to severe weather, with parts of England expected to receive up to 75mm of rain.

The inside arcades and dessert shop at the fun park remain open as usual.

A spokesman for Fantasy Island said: "Unfortunately, due to the heavy rain, Fantasy Island outside fun park will be closed today.

"The inside arcades and Sugar Rays are open as usual.

"We’re really sorry for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

"Fingers crossed for better weather soon — we can’t wait to welcome you back for plenty of rides, fun, and family adventures.

"Thank you for your continued support."

Heavy rain has affected much of Essex throughout the morning, and conditions are expected to remain poor through the day.

One lane of the A13 London-bound was closed near the Wennington Interchange by Aveley due to flooding.

The Met Office issued two yellow thunderstorm warnings which are in force today.

The first covers all of Essex until 10pm, while the second remains in place for most of the county, excluding some parts of the west and south, until 7am on Friday, August 28.

The warnings include the potential for flooding, lightning, and hail.

The Met Office said there is a "small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail, or strong winds".

Disruption to transport is possible, with delays and cancellations to train and bus services, as well as hazardous driving conditions and potential road closures.

The Met Office added there is a small chance that some communities could become cut off by flooded roads, and there is a slight chance that power cuts could occur.

More than 800 properties in Great Yeldham and surrounding areas have been left without power due to an unplanned outage this morning.