RESIDENTS are being warned to stay safe as wild weather sweeps into Dorset this week.

An unsettled week will see the possibility of snow and ice, together with wind and rain.

Parts of the coast will see gusts of 75mph during Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

Dorset County Council is working with the Environment Agency, utility companies and local councils to prepare for the forecast weather.

There is a general alert for high winds and waves along the Dorset coast. Coastal defences have been repaired from last winter and are ready to protect communities. The advice is to stay away from the coast.

A severe weather alert from the Highways agency also said some vehicles could be at 'increased risk of being blown over', adding: "Road users in the south of England are being advised to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel on the evening of Wednesday 14 January and into the morning of Thursday 15 January, as strong winds are expected. 

"As a result of these strong winds, the Highways Agency has issued a Severe Weather Alert for high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and other vulnerable vehicles that may be at an increased risk of being blown over."

Wind gusts of 60-70mph are expected inland. The county council’s highways team will be on hand to clear roads that are blocked by fallen trees or power lines, working with utility companies and Dorset Police to ensure everyone’s safety.

Cllr Peter Finney, county council Cabinet member for environment and economy, said: “It is important that we all pay attention to the warnings. Be aware of the risks on the coast stay away from cliffs and swollen rivers. Don’t put yourself and others in danger.

“Take extra care driving on roads where there maybe ice, surface water or debris. My message to all road users is be bright, be seen and be careful.”

For information about council services affected by the weather visit www.dorsetforyou.com/severeweather

For flood alerts visit environment-agency.gov.uk