THE first flurries of snow have started to fall across Essex after a week of weather warnings.

The first flakes were recorded in west Essex but now the white stuff is falling across the county. 

Meanwhile, some coastal areas are facing flood warnings with Jaywick residents being evacuated ahead of a predicted storm surge and rescue centres being set up on Mersea island after a 'danger of death' warning issued.

In south Essex, the Environment Agency has warned extreme weather conditions will lead to a high risk of flooding from Shoeburyness to Southend Pier including Southchurch park.

The forecast high water is due at Southend tomorrow at 1.30pm. This warning is in force until 3.30pm.

Properties are at risk in the Gunners Park area, Shoebury Common and the Southchurch Park area.

But while the snow lasts, people have taken to the streets on sleds in south Essex.

Brentwood Live:

In Colchester, Charlene Michaels sent in this picture of a snow-covered car while Christopher Whittell videoed the rain showers turning to snow.

Brentwood Live:

Wintry pictures flooded twitter yesterday afternoon, along with weather advice from the police.

Casualty reduction manager Adam Pipe tweeted to say: "From on duty officers. Please ensure windscreens are clear of snow before setting off on your journey. Thank you."

No accidents have been reported but many main roads including the A12, A130, A13, A127 and A414 are experiencing slow-moving traffic.

Send your snow pictures to emma.hobley@nqe.com.

Rain just turned into snow in Colchester, Essex pic.twitter.com/4mVkZ2HSwQ