Fire crews have been called to flooding across the county. 

In one of the worst incidents firefighters were called to 20 flats in Saffron Walden which had flooded at about 5am this morning. 

A severe weather warning is in place with further heavy rain expected this evening. 

Greater Anglia is reporting that White Notley train station is flooded.

Essex County Council travel feed is also reporting problems: 

M25 clockwise just after J27 (M11) reports of flooding with water up to a foot deep on the inside lane. 08:05 Ongoing

Danbury - Riffhams lane - a tree has fallen on to some cables and is partially blocking the road. 08:05 Ongoing

A1124 Colchester Road, Halstead – road is flooded at junction with Greenstead Green Road – police say cars are stuck in the flooding. 08:05 Ongoing

A131 flooded at Bulmer Tye and Catley Cross. 08:05 Ongoing

Police say many area affected by flooding particularly in Saffron Walden and Thaxted areas – and in all areas particularly to the north of the county and on the suffolk border.

The force is offering advice to drivers urging them to take extra care.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Many minor roads and some major routes across the county have been affected this morning."

"If you come across a flooded road, you should only attempt to drive through if you are certain that it is not too deep

"Many cars will start to float in as little as 12 inches of water.

"This can be extremely dangerous.

"Just an egg cupful of water ingested into the combustion chamber is sufficient to destroy an engine.

"Only drive through flood water if you know it's not too deep.

"Do not attempt to drive through fast-moving water.

"If you have to drive through water, select a low gear.

"Before entering, consider other drivers.

 "Pass through flooded sections one car at a time.

"Drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a large bow wave.

"Test your brakes as soon as you leave the water.

"If the worst happens and you break down do not repeatedly try to start the engine.

"Call for recovery and wait in a safe place."