Residents across south Essex should brace themselves for a wet and blustery weekend as heavy rain and strong winds are forecast to sweep through the area on Saturday and Sunday.

The unsettled weather, driven by a low-pressure system, is expected to bring periods of heavy rain, strong gusts, and cooler temperatures, potentially impacting outdoor plans and travel.

On Saturday, the day will start damp, with light rain showers from early morning, potentially intensifying as the morning progresses.

By midday, the rain is expected to ease with overcast, and temperatures reaching 8°C. Wind will steadily increase, peaking at around 43 mph with occasional stronger gusts.

The afternoon will remain wet, with steady rainfall and a peak temperature of 12°C.

As evening falls, the rain is expected to get heavier, and winds will remain brisk.

On Sunday, the day will bring lighter rain. From around 6am there will light showers across south Essex, coupled with winds reaching up to 50 mph.

Temperatures will hover around 13°C in the morning, climbing to 14°C by early afternoon.

While the rain may ease slightly in intensity later in the afternoon, the wind is forecast to remain strong, making for blustery conditions.

By evening, the rain showers will continue, and temperatures will start to dip.