ESSEX Police are advising motorists to take care on the roads after forecasters suggest up to 70mm of rain could fall overnight.

The latest update from the Met Office suggests that a band of moderate rain will pass across Essex during the late evening and early morning.

Rainfall is expected to be between 30 and 40mm but could be as much as 70mm in isolated places.

The most significant period of rainfaill is expected to be between 6pm and 3am with winds also expected to reach 45 to 50 miles per hour.

Chief Inspector Josie Hayes, of Essex Police, said: "With such significant rainfall falling within a short period of time there is the potential for isolated flooding, including flooded roads and travel disruption.

"Fortunately the worst weather is likely to be later into the evening and night after the rush hour. But we would advise people not to travel unless absolutely necessary this evening and early tomorrow."

She added that drivers should also take care if using any Essex roads that might be affected by flooding or blocked by debris.

They should drive appropriately to the conditions, and take especial care on tree-lined roads with blind bends.

If motorists come across flooding on the roads they should consider the following: If you come across a flooded road, you should only attempt to drive through if you are certain that it is not too deep Many cars will start to float in as little as 12 inches of water. This can be extremely dangerous; as the wheels lose grip, and you will lose control - with the obvious risks and consequences.

The engine air intake on many cars is low down at the front of the car and just a small amount of water ingested into the combustion chamber is sufficient to destroy an engine.

Only drive through flood water if you know it's not too deep. This will be no deeper than the lowest part of the vehicle's bodywork.

If in doubt....don't!

If you have to drive through water, select a low gear so the engine revs are higher, slipping the clutch if necessary or, for an automatic vehicle, select the lowest ratio and balance the throttle and brakes.

Before entering, consider other drivers - pass through flooded sections one car at a time, don't drive through water against approaching fording vehicles.

Drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a large bow wave.

Test your brakes as soon as you leave the water.

If you get stuck, firstly, ensure the safety of all involved, including other road users. Do not repeatedly try to start the engine, (this may cause further damage). Call for recovery and wait in a safe place.

Information on highways in Essex is available at www.essex.gov.uk/highwaysand on Twitter at @Essex_Travel.