West Dorset has been issued with a flood alert due to rising water levels at its rivers. 

Reisdents are being warned flooding is possible and to be prepared.

The A3066 between Bridport and Beaminster is flooded at Melplash.

River levels are rising as a result of persistent rainfall. Consequently, flooding of roads and farmland is possible.

According to the Environment Agency, there is a possibility Rivers Brit, Lim, Char, Winniford, Simene, Asker, Mangerton and Bride will overflow.

It says it is closely monitoring the situation and its incident response staff are checking defences.

Residents are urged to avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded. 

At about 5.30pm today, a flood alert was issued for the whole of the west Dorset coast, with a particular warning about sea spray overtopping.

There is a possibility of flooding for Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Seatown, West Bay, Bothenhampton, Burton Freshwater, Burton Bradstock, Cogden Beach, Chesil Beach, West Fleet, East Fleet and Chiswell.

Coastal conditions should ease for high tide at 6.30pm tomorrow, according to the agency.

 

 

 

 

A red flood warning remains in place for the South Winterbourne Valley and surrounding areas, meaning that flooding is expected and immediate action is required.

Groundwater levels had already peaked at the Kingston Russell Borehole last week. After further rainfall this week, the groundwater levels are expected to rise once again.

A spokesman for the Flood Information Service said: "We expect some properties with basements and cellars to experience some groundwater inundation and strongly encourage residents to activate their pumps if they have not already done so. If you notice any sewerage drain issues contact your local water company.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation."