High tides expected to bring coastal flooding

High tides are expected to cause flooding along parts of the Dorset coast.

The Environment Agency (EA) has issued flood warnings for the high tides at Chiswell, Portland and East Beach at West Bay until early afternoon on Saturday.

It said Portland Beach Road and the causeway were being closely monitored and the flood gates would be closed if necessary. At East Beach, people were being urged to avoid coastal roads, footpaths and car parks, which may be flooded.

A Met Office yellow warning for further heavy rain throughout Saturday is in place across Dorset and the South West until 22:00 GMT.

At Chiswell, the EA said areas most at risk included the A354 Chiswell, Brandy Row, Pebble Lane, Victoria Square up to the junction with Queens Road, the car parks along the A354 and the yard along Lerret Road.

It said there was a risk of some larger waves overtopping the beach crest.

At West Bay, areas most at risk include properties behind East Beach, including Pier Terrace, Waterside, The Bay House, The Old Watch House, Bridport Arms Hotel, Seagulls, Swains Row, The Old Timber Yard, Station Road, Station Way and George Street.

There are numerous flood warnings in place across Dorset, including groundwater flooding in the Hooke village area due to the groundwater level at the Dickley Down borehole.

The warnings are also in place in the Christchurch Harbour area, including Mudeford, Stanpit, the Quomps and Wick area due to high levels in the River Stour.

In Hampshire, a warning is also in place south of the A36 in areas close to the River Avon, including Blashford near Ringwood, Charlton All Saints, Breamore, Fordingbridge and Bickton.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue rescued three people from vehicles stranded in floodwater on Wednesday, at Hammoon and Holnest.

A spokesperson said: "If you are travelling in unfamiliar areas and come across flooded roads, please do not put yourself at risk by attempting to drive through it."