A BOAT has sunk just off the Southend coast after being buffeted by winds of up to 60 miles per hour.

The small vessel moored due south of Thorpe Esplanade, opposite the junction with Lynton Road, has capsized and sunk today, according to reports.

A photograph taken at about 1pm today appears to show the boat in its side and almost fully submerged in the choppy waters.

Get more great stories like this delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our morning newsletter - don't miss out!

One eye witness told the Echo: “The water was so rough and choppy, it’s almost a surprise that the other boats haven’t also been knocked over.

“The waves are getting really high and they are crashing into the little boats just off the beach.

“I saw the thing rocking about violently before a large wave of water crashed into it knocking it on its side.

They added: “The coastguard were called by another bystander, hopefully the boat get rescued before it gets too damaged!”

Southend Coastguard has been contacted by the Echo.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind in the county from 10am until 6pm today.

The experts warn strong and gusty southwesterly winds may lead to some disruption, particularly for prone high-sided vehicles.

According to the Met Office, delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges  as well as some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely.

They also warn to expect damage to trees, possible short term loss of power and other services, as well as disruption to some bus and train services.