Flooding has hit after severe overnight rain, closing roads and trapping drivers.

Countywide Essex Fire and Rescue Service has received 200 flood-related calls, with most incidents in Ongar, Brentwood and Chelmsford.

The A414 is closed westbound between the Four Wantz roundabout in Ongar and North Weald, with floodwater and broken down cars causing delays in both directions.

There are high waters on roads in Stapleford Abbotts, and Environment Agency flood alerts cover parts of Epping, Loughton, Chigwell, Upshire, Buckhurst Hill and Waltham Abbey

Firefighters have rescued a number of motorists after they drove into water thinking they could get through.

The fire service said: “Just two feet of water is enough to float a car and six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars.

“This depth can cause loss of control or possible stalling as water is sucked into the exhaust or washes into the air intake.

“Motorists should never attempt to drive through water deeper than the centre of their wheels.

“If water gets into the car’s air intake or into the electrics the car will stop, leaving driver and passengers trapped.”

Water can also be hiding damaged road or missing manhole covers.

Drivers should be particularly careful crossing fords, the service added, as they are extremely dangerous with fast flowing water.

The River Roding in the south of the district, Cripsey Brook in the east and Lower Lee tributaries in the west have all risen.

Heavy rain is expected this afternoon, which could lead to further flooding.

PHOTOS: Floods cause chaos in Epping Forest

Have you been affected by flooding in Epping Forest district? Let our reporter Joseph Flaig know by phoning 07795 316 211. You can also email pictures to joseph.flaig@london.newsquest.co.uk or send to @JosephFlaigEFG on Twitter.