The wettest April in the UK since records began in 1910 has caused flooded roads and dangerous driving conditions.

The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) is advising drivers to take care on roads and when entering or approaching flooded fords following heavy downpours throughout the region over the last few days.

Ambulance service spokesman Gary Sanderson said: “I must stress the importance of taking care when approaching or entering a flooded road or ford.

"Over the weekend in Hertfordshire, a family of four were lucky to escape unharmed when their car became stuck in a ford with the water rising into it.”

Mr Sanderson added: “Please watch your speed and leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicles in front of you on your journey and ensure your window screen wipers are in full working order.”

Essex Police has also urged drivers to take care on roads following the heavy rain overnight.

It has received reports of more than 30 weather-related incidents across the county since midnight.

Chief Inspector Graham Stubbs said: "A large number of roads have been affected by flooding and in some places the water is deep.

"I would urge all drivers to take care and drive within the conditions.

"The rain was heavy overnight and early this morning but it is now easing.

"However, there is still a lot of surface water on the roads.

"Drivers should reduce speed in wet conditions and drive with dipped headlights so that they can been seen in surface spray that is being thrown up by other vehicles.

Affected roads include Colchester Road, Tiptree; Holland Road, Kirby Cross; Heath Road, Manningtree; Station Road, Manningtree; Tann Lane, Little Clacton; Springfield Road at Boreham Interchange; Riffhams Chase, Great Baddow; Church Road, Boreham; Buttesbury Wash, Ingatestone; Hammonds Road, Little Baddow; Hullbridge Road, South Woodham Ferrers and Mount Road, Theydon Garnon.

The Traffic Control Centre has reported deep surface water on the northbound carriageway of the A12 Chelmsford bypass between J15 and J16 (Three Mile Hill and Galleywood).

Deep surface water is also reported on both carriageways under the bridge on the A12 J29 (Ardleigh Crown Interchange/A120), as well as on the B1032 Clacton Road between Holland on Sea and Kirby Cross on the road across Holland marshes.