HEAVY rain has caused flooding on roads across the region.

Drivers are being warned to take extra care.

A statement released by Cleveland Police said: "Emergency services and local authorities are dealing with localised flooding across Cleveland.

"Water running off embankments is causing issues with drains unable to cope with the volume of water.

"The Met Office has indicated that the rain will last around midday today, with no indication that rivers in the area will flood.

"There are a number of roads affected by flooding but remain passable with care for drivers. Low Lane near to Sporting Lodge (in Middlesbrough) is closed due to flooding and New Road at Billingham is also closed."

Durham County Council has issued a list of roads affected by flooding.

Roads closed: Unclassified 20.13 Wades Lane, Littletown, A181 Sherburn House (railway bridge), A181 Wingate (next to Jet Garage), C22 Station Town to Deaf Hill, Belmont (slip road onto the A690 westbound).

Roads with flood warning signs: A167 Cock O North to Merryoaks (lane closure), A691 Lanchester, A689 Low Willington, A690 Stonebridge to Langley Moor, B1283 Sherburn Hill to Haswell, B6302 Broom Park to Ushaw Moor, B6302 Ushaw Moor to Esh Winning, C10 A691 to Burnhope, C23 Harrop Road, Fishburn, Front Street, Frosterley, Winston Road.

Northumbria Police said roads throughout the force area are currently open and passable with care.

A spokesperson added: "However, there is standing water on many roads and drivers are advised to proceed with caution.

"Road users should take care; drive safely and watch out for standing water.

"Officers are advising motorists to allow extra time for their journey, make sure they leave plenty of distance from the vehicle in front and avoid driving into standing water where possible.

"Be alert for cyclists and pedestrians and maintain a safe distance from other road users."

Flooding between Durham and Darlington is causing delays on the East Coast Main Line. 

Trains are having to run more slowly through the affected area, causing delays of up to 25 minutes between Newcastle and Darlington.