Road closures in place after North East is battered by heavy rain and winds

There could be some delays around Testos roundabout this morning.

Heavy rain and strong winds battered the region yesterday afternoon and evening, causing many roads to flood.

Officers from Northumbria Police have worked through the night in a bid to minimise disruption on the roads ahead of the morning commute, and have managed to clear many of the main routes.

However, there are some significant road closures, and some important information for drivers heading through South Tyneside.

The A19 northbound between Testo's roundabout and the turn-off for Boldon is down to one lane, and causing congestion.

Extra delays can also be expected at Lindisfarne roundabout, underneath the A19 in Jarrow. There is a lot of standing water, but it is passable.

North of the River Tyne, there is also disruption, with the A189 spine road at Cramlington closed in both directions. Diversions are in place.

The A1 near to Newton on Moor at Alnwick also has a lot of standing water, and the road is down to one lane in both directions.

There is still some significant standing water on some roads in urban areas that is passable with care. Large areas of rural Northumberland have also been badly affected.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "The message from police is for motorists to reduce their speed and concentrate on the road.

"If possible, leave extra time for your journeys as there will be congestion.

"Officers and local authority workers will be on duty through the morning to try and ensure the roads are moving as quickly as possible.

"The public are reminded that they should only dial 999 in an emergency. Call 101 if you require a police response but there is not immediate risk to person or property."