MAJOR traffic jams and delays are occurring across Epping Forest, Redbridge and Waltham Forest this evening after an hour of heavy snowfall earlier today.

Almost all main routes in the north east London and west Essex region have been affected, while many bus services have been either suspended or delayed.

However, while there have been minor delays on the Central underground line with a reduction in the frequency of trains, the rail network is largely operating as normal.

The disruption comes after about an inch of snow fell in the space of an hour from around 4pm today, settling and adding to compacted ice on roads and pavements from last night's freeze.

REDBRIDGE: An overturned car on the A406 North Circular at the A12 by the Redbridge Roundabout has caused major jams.

EPPING: Many roads are completely jammed as cars struggle in the icy conditions. Earlier this evening Station Road and Epping High Street were both at a standstill, with emergency vehicles struggling to get through. Epping New Road is heavily congested.

WALTHAMSTOW: There are jams on Hoe Street, while some people have effectively turned the Arcade site into a giant ice skating rink as youngsters slide around on the snow - on the very day the council's much-criticised official rink was removed.

LEYTON: Delays on the High Road, with few buses passing through, leading to extreme overcrowding on many services.

WOODFORD GREEN: Many roads are completely covered in ice, with commuters left shivering at bus stops with a severely reduced service on key routes such as the 275 bus. There is heavy congestion on Woodford New Road.

BUCKHURST HILL: Traffic in Loughton Way is at a virtual standstill amid the terrible conditions.

MOTORWAYS: Both the M11 and M25 are badly congested this evening.

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