PEOPLE are advised not to travel in heavy rain and strong winds which are predicted for this afternoon.

Flood warnings have been issued for West Bay and Lyme Regis harbours.

Areas most at risk around high water at 11am and 10.15pm in West Bay are the Esplanade, Quayside, Heron Court, Forty Foot Way, Driftwood, George Street, Swains Row, The Old Timberyard, Station Way, Pier Terrace and East Beach.

A South West Trains spokesman said there is a 'very strong possibility of severe disruption' on its railway network.

Passengers travelling on the Weymouth to London Waterloo line are advised to only travel if absolutely necessary and to check before travelling.

Some trains may have to run at significantly reduced speeds, be altered or cancelled. An amended train timetable may be used in place of the current timetable.

Passengers who are planning to travel this afternoon but who can travel earlier, or this evening are advised to do so.

Any Advance, Off Peak or Super Off Peak tickets already booked for travel this afternoon will additionally be valid throughout this morning on any train.

Dorset looks set for a drenching this week, with heavy rain forecast.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for today and Tuesday across the South West, stating that the area should ‘be prepared.’ The warning from the Met said: “A spell of heavy rainfall is expected to affect parts of southern England and South Wales during Monday.

“This will fall onto saturated ground and lead to a risk of some flooding. “Gale to severe gale force winds will be an added hazard, with the potential for very strong gusts across coastal areas.”

The report added: “The public should be prepared for the likelihood of some significant disruption due to the combined hazards of heavy rainfall and high winds.

“The rainfall should clear southeast England on Tuesday morning, with the winds moderating from the west.”

The Highways Agency is advising road users to be cautious as the weather front hits.

Those driving high-sided vehicles, riding motorbikes or towing caravans are being urged to check traffic and weather conditions before setting out on journeys and to heed any advice such as speed restrictions.

John McTaggart, head of on-road services at the Highways Agency said: Be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space.

“In the event of persistent high winds we may need to close certain bridges to traffic for a period, so please be alert for warnings of closures and follow the clearly signed diversion routes.”