Several roads are blocked and residents have been left without power after Storm Eleanor blew in last night. 

Forecasters warned lives could be at risk from flying debris as the fifth-named storm of the season arrived.

A yellow weather warning – meaning ‘be aware’ – was issued yesterday and was in place overnight and until 6pm today.

Winds of 84 mph battered coastal parts of the county last night but despite this Dorset Police have said major routes seem largely unaffected by weather related issues at the moment. 

Fallen trees are causing hazards on the roads this morning and driver are urged to take extra care. 

  • Watford Lane in Bridport is currently blocked in both directions due to a fallen tree. The road is blocked between Pymore Road and A3066 Beaminster Road but traffic is said to be coping well.
  • A356 is partially blocked due to fallen tree at Chilfrome Lane which is affecting traffic between Notton and Maiden Newton.
  • A356 both ways partially blocked due to fallen tree at Chedington Road (Winyards Gap Inn). Traffic is coping well.
  • B3165, Oathill Lane in West Dorset is partially blocked due to fallen tree at B3162.
  • Curry Hole Lane both ways partially blocked due to fallen tree at Yeovil Road.

According to Scottish and Southern Electricity, some residents in the DT2 area have been left without power overnight. 

It's reported those affected are in the Evershot and Melbury Sampford areas. 

The powercut was first reported at 3.14am this morning with an engineer expected shortly afterwards but power is not expected to be restored until 3pm.