HEAVY rain has hit Lancashire overnight and this morning, causing disruption on the roads.

Around 15 to 20mm of rain has fallen in just 12 hours across Lancashire, according to Met Office chiefs.

Forecasters said areas in East Lancashire, including Clitheroe and the north of Burnley have been hit particularly badly, seeing 19-22mm of rain fall.

However, no weather warnings or flood alerts are currently in place in the area, but motorists are being advised to take care on the roads.

The severe weather has seen traffic delays on junction seven to junction eight of the M65 this morning at Oswaldtwistle, while the A56 Edenfield Bypass Northbound entry slip road is closed due to an accident at M66 / A680 Bolton Road North / A56 Wood Lane / A676 Bolton Road North (Edenfield Junction), which could affect traffic travelling from Haslingden and Rawtenstall.

North West Motorway Police tweeted this morning: "Rain poor visibility driving too fast for the conditions equals RTC's and delays."

Emma Sharples, a meterologist at the Met Office said: "No weather warnings are in place, but Lancashire has seen some quite heavy rain through the night.

"Rainfall has totalled 15 to 20mm in the last 12 hours, but it's as much as 19 to 22m in some areas, including Clitheroe and north of Burnley.

"We've probably seen the wettest period now but there is some more rain to come."

But it's not all bad news, as forecasters said the weather should improve as the day progresses, with brighter spells expected tomorrow.

Ms Sharples added: "Brighter weather will come in from the west this afternoon and it should be generally dry overnight.

"Tomorrow will then be brighter with the odd shower around, but as we get to the end of the week, the rain will sadly return.

"Motorists should take care when driving, especially in areas where surface water from rain could get on to the roads."