A 12-HOUR weather warning has been issued for Essex as heavy rain is expected to batter the county this week.

The Met Office's yellow alert is in place from 9pm on Wednesday until 9am on Thursday, warning conditions could turn "thundery" with the weather map indicating much of the south east can expect the same.

The forecaster warns residents to expect:

  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
  • There is a slight chance power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost
  • There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds
  • There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life

So residents can plan ahead, here is an hour-by-hour forecast for Southend amid the 12-hour warning:

Wednesday, September 4

9pm to 11pm - 60 per cent chance of light showers

Thursday, September 5

12am - 50 per cent chance of light showers 

1am to 3am - 60 per cent chance of light rain

4am to 6am - 70 per cent chance of heavy rain

7am to 9am - 60 per cent chance of light shower