Drone footage shows flooding on closed A68 in Darlington

Heavy downpours on Tuesday (October 8) and overnight caused flooding in areas across the North East leading to major travel disruption on Wednesday morning.

A section of the A68 West Auckland Road in Burtree has been closed from the A1 to the cattle mart, Darlington Council said.

(Image: CHRIS FLORY) The A68 inbound from the cattle market to Burtree Lane is also closed, but Burtree Lane remains open.

Earlier, pictures showed a Mini car stranded in deep water after its driver deserted the vehicle.

Footage showed motorists attempting to pass through the flooding.

A mini was stranded in the flood water on the A68. (Image: GEMMA TODD/UGC) Ariel video shows the extent of flooding which spans the carriageway and a neighbouring field.

Huge queues of traffic wait beyond the flooding with cars turning around to return towards Darlington.

A stretch of the A1(M) north of Newton Aycliffe has been closed in both directions on for hours with huge tailbacks and delays.

Justin Parry from the Durham and Darlington Fire Service said: “We would like to remind motorists to take extra care when driving through flooded areas. Avoid driving through deep water, and if the road is flooded, turn around and find an alternate route to ensure your safety and that of other road users.”

Recommended reading:

• Hour-by-hour Met Office forecast as more rain expected today after flooding
• A1(M) closed in BOTH DIRECTIONS after flooding sparking delays of more than ONE HOUR
• Update given on investigation in to Darlington girl, 10, who died in mudslide

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Police have been assisting with the closure of roads across the region.

A yellow Met Office warning for rain remains in place until 3pm on Wednesday.

Video: CHRIS FLORY