A flood alert has been issued in parts of south Essex amid fears some areas will be underwater when heavy rain arrives later today.
The Environment Agency has issued a warning for the River Mardyke between North Stifford and Purfleet.
It says flooding of homes and businesses is likely throughout today (Monday, January 18) and the coming days.
There is also said to be a minor risk of flooding to low-lying land and roads.
The warning adds: “Areas most at risk are along the River Mardyke between North Stifford and Purfleet.
“We are working hard to resolve an issue with the sluice which is restricting the river draining out to sea through the Mardyke Sluice as quickly as expected.
“The forecast is for a dry day for most of Monday, but persistent rainfall will arrive Monday evening, throughout the night and into Tuesday morning.
“Flood water is dangerous. Don't put yourself or others at risk. We are closely monitoring the situation.”
More thanks to Firefighters who worked with our crews to keep pumping water off the A127 overnight at weekend. Work planned to help prevent flooding in future as more rain forecast this week @ECFRS #teamwork https://t.co/ebcebqJ3eY
— Essex Highways (@essexhighways) January 18, 2021
The warning comes just days after firefighters were called in to drain away water which had flooded part of the A127.
Essex Highways says planning is now underway to prevent further flooding ahead of heavy rainfall due in the coming days.
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