The Queen Elizabeth II bridge, which carries traffic from Essex into Kent at the Dartford Crossing, remains closed this morning for safety reasons.

The closure, which is due to high winds, is not expected until be after the morning rush hour.

Highways England will monitor wind speeds and reopen the bridge when they drop to a safe level.

The crossing will remain open with the tunnel operating in both directions whilst the bridge is closed.

Drivers on the clockwise M25 to A282 from Essex into Kent will be diverted through the east tunnel after midnight.

Drivers on the anti-clockwise M25 to take the A282 from Kent into Essex via the Dartford

Planned maintenance scheduled for last night was cancelled to allow tunnels to be used for traffic.

Drivers are advised to plan their journey in advance and check weather and traffic update from the Met Offic and local radio. They should also be aware of sudden gusts of wind and given high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of room.

You can get live traffic information here, and the latest weather forecasts here.