Many vehicles have become trapped in water across the Epping Forest district as a result of flooding.

Stondon Road in Ongar is closed in both directions and bollards have been placed at the entrance of the road to warn motorists to avoid driving through the flooded section.

Essex firefighters were called to Millers Green Road, in Willingale, Ongar at 1.20pm this afternoon after a vehicle containing a mother and child got stuck in flood water.

The woman and child managed to get out of the car before firefighters arrived at the scene and are both safe.  

Since Wednesday, the Environment Agency has had a flood alert in place for the upper River Roding in the Ongar, Stapleford and Great Dunmow area.  

The latest update on the alert issued this morning states water levels on the upper River Roding are rising as a result of the continual rainfall last night.

This is likely to result in flooding to lower lying land, roads and gardens next to the river and surface water flooding can also be expected in some locations.

A flood warning is in place for the River Roding in Abridge with flooding expected across the surrounding area. Residents are being advised to take action, particularly properties at Hillmans Cottages in Ongar Road,

The middle River Roding and lower River Roding also have flood alerts in place.