Residents have been warned to take immediate action, with flooding possible in west Dorset tonight following a weather warning for high winds.

A yellow weather warning is predicting strong winds for the rest of the day, which could bring spray and large waves to coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities.

The whole of the west coast of Dorset, particularly at West Bay and Chiswell, is subject to a flood alert.

Large and powerful waves are expected as a result of high tide today. This alert will remain in force for up to four hours following high tide.

A spokesman for the Flood Information Service said: "We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Seatown, West Bay, Bothenhampton, Burton Freshwater, Burton Bradstock, Cogdean Beach, Chesil Beach, West Fleet, East Fleet and Chiswell.

"High sea levels are expected to continue until after high tides at 9.30pm at Chiswell and West Bay. We are closely monitoring the situation."

The Met Office has said that the powerful gusts could cause some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport.

There will also be the chance that some bus and train services are affected, with some journeys taking longer.

Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges are likely and some short term loss of power and other services is possible.

Further flood alerts are in place for the lower River Frome and River Piddle.

Advice on travelling in storms, rain and strong wind is available on the Met Office website.