Dorset residents have been warned to brace for disruption as strong winds and large waves have been forecast to batter the county.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds between 4am and 4pm today, meaning that people should prepare for travel disruption.

Residents have been told there could be a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris and buildings could also be damaged.

Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely and some bus and train services could be affected, with some journeys taking longer.

The Met Office also warned that periods of power loss and failure of other services is also possible.

Some short term loss of power and other services is possible.

Residents in coastal communities will be affected by spray and large waves caused by the high winds.

Flood warnings and 'risk to life' 

The local authority is warning of a risk to life along the coast today.

There are flood warnings in place for Lyme Regis, and West Bay.

Although flooding at Chesil is unlikely, both the Environment Agency and the council will watch to see if this changes.

The forecast for winds on the coast is from gale force eight up to severe gale force nine or ten.

The wind will reach gusts of 60-75mph.

Dorset Council is asking people to stay away from exposed cliffs.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “We want residents and visitors to stay safe and well. With winds this strong there is a possibility of risk to life along the coast.”

Inland the wind is not expected to be as strong, up to 65mph, but this may cause some travel disruption with trees still in leaf there is a possibility of blocked roads and rail lines.

Tress may also take down power lines in places.

Any events planned for  the weekend may have to be postponed due to the weather. So, check with the organisers before you travel.