Storm Dennis strikes Essex causing road closures, falling trees and travel delays

Storm Dennis has struck Essex causing havoc with road closures, blocked train lines and falling trees.

The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for most of Saturday and Sunday, with many expecting another wet and windy weekend. The warning is in place until midnight tonight (Sunday, February 16).

Essex Police have advised drivers not to travel unless absolutely necessary. A number of road closures are currently in place including the QEII Bridge at the Dartford Crossing.

A number of trees are also down on roads across the county, causing road closures and further travel havoc.

A large tree has fallen down in Loughton, blocking Hilly Fields and the road is closed. Police are attendance dealing with the incident.

A fallen tree blocks the road in Loughton

There are a number of train disruptions this morning, including the c2c train which is facing overhead signal problem between Shoeburyness and Southend and Barking and Fenchurch Street.

Greater Anglia is urging travellers to check their website before travelling.

The firm said: “Due to storm Dennis high winds and heavy rain are expected. Please check before you travel at journeycheck.com/greateranglia”

A number of attractions are also closed due to the storm warnings including Adventure Island on Southend-on-Sea.

We will bring you further updates on Storm Dennis throughout the day. To keep up with all the latest news across Essex, please like our Facebook Page or join our Essex Breaking News group.