Flood warnings remain after more rain overnight

More than 80 flood warnings remain in place across Dorset and Hampshire in the aftermath of Storm Chandra and more heavy rain overnight.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said its highways teams had responded to 153 reports of flooding and all school transport in Dorset has been cancelled on Friday.

Emergency services worked late into the night at a traveller site in Thornicombe Park, near Blandford Forum, where a number of residents were taken to safety after "unprecedented" flooding.

BCP Council said high tides, heavy downpours and many areas being at sea level "are all also contributing factors to the flooding".

The region was hit by strong winds and heavy rain from the storm on Monday and Tuesday, leaving roads and properties flooded.

BCP Council said in several areas, river levels "met or exceeded their highest records, leading to flooding on nearby land and highways".

"Storm Chandra brought intense rainfall and swift rises in river and groundwater levels on top of already saturated land," it said.

"The high tides this week, the heavy downpour from the storm and the fact many areas within BCP are at sea level are all also contributing factors to the flooding this week."

It added that its teams were working to remove debris caused by the flooding where waters had receded and to ensure routes were reopened and safe for use, such as the A338 and Magna Road.

The local authority said it also carried out "regular, planned maintenance, including gully emptying and clearing ditches, soakaways and pipes".

"Please continue to avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water," it added.

Dorset Council cancelled all school transport on Friday on safety grounds and more than 20 schools are closed.

The local authority said the decision "has not been made lightly, and we understand frustrations from parents, carers and school leaders".

Businesses are also affected such as the Palm House cafe at Radipole Lake in Weymouth, where water poured in on Tuesday.

Owner Nigel Sims-Duff said the damage would cost him "multiple thousands" in repairs and loss of income.

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