Downpours cause problems for Tynedale drivers

And the Environment Agency put out flood watch alerts along the Tyne as river water threatened to burst its banks.

They put out the early flood warnings at Hexham, Corbridge, Bywell and Prudhoe. This afternoon's meeting at Hexham races was called off due to the conditions.

A police spokesman said: "The rain poured down overnight flooding most of the roads in the region.

"Many of the roads have been reduced to one lane which will cause problems during rush hour.

"The worst affected were the A69, the Coast Road at Heaton, the Spine Road, the Seaton Burn roundabout, Corbridge, Washington Highway, the list goes on.

"We have flooding across the region and are asking people to drive carefully."

According to Met office statistics, up to 20mm of rain fell over parts of the North East during the night and more is on it's way.

A spokeswoman said: "Although it was dry this morning, we will see more rain through the afternoon and through into the night.

"This rain will, however, be light and patchy. It will probably continue into tomorrow morning and then into the afternoon. Cumbria is set to have heavy rain through the night, but the North East is somewhat protected.

"There is no severe weather warning for the region."

Read extended story on problems around the North East »

For updates on flood watch alerts call floodline on 0845 988 1188 and enter area number 132205 to get more information.

Read extended story on problems around the North East »

For updates on flood watch alerts call floodline on 0845 988 1188 and enter area number 132103 to get more information on the flood watch around South Tyne and its tributaries.

Environment Agency North East flood warnings »