THE Met Office has issued a weather warning for rain and wind as Storm Alex is set to cause a wet and unsettled weekend.

Dorset has seen a mixture of sunshine and overcast weather in recent days, but this is set to be brought to a halt in the coming days with spells of rain and wind predicted. 

Met Office has warned it is due to Storm Alex, which will bring 'very unsettled weather to France on Friday, but also some wet and windy weather for southern parts of the UK.'

The weather forecaster has issued a yellow weather alert for rain and wind, which will be in place from 3am until 8pm on Friday (October 2).

This weather warning covers the entirely of Dorset as well as neighbouring Devon, Hampshire as well as some parts of Wiltshire and Somerset. 

Heavy rain is expected to hit Dorset throughout the morning and afternoon before easing in the evening. 

The Met Office describes the warning as "a spell of wet and windy weather is expected, with potential for flooding and transport disruption."

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: A rain and wind weather warning has been issued for Dorset, Devon, Wiltshire and Somerset for Friday (October 2) between 3am and 8pm. (CREDIT: Met Office)A rain and wind weather warning has been issued for Dorset, Devon, Wiltshire and Somerset for Friday (October 2) between 3am and 8pm. (CREDIT: Met Office)

The weather alert warns that the rain could also cause some flooding, with a small chance homes and businesses could be flooded.

In areas where there is flooding, there is also a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

The weather forecasters warn spray and flooding could lead to "dangerous driving conditions" and result in longer journey times. 

Met Office also adds: "It’s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves."

Beyond the weather alert for Friday, Dorset is set to experience spells of heavy rain on Saturday (October 3) and in the early hours of Sunday (October 4).

The Met Office adds that Sunday will see a mixture of sunshine and rain showers. 

What to do when travelling in rain and strong winds

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: An ambulance is driven through flood water on the Portland Beach Road near Weymouth in Dorset

The Met Office advises people to 'take care' when travelling in heavy rain, wind and thunderstorms.

The weather forecaster has also issued the following advice about driving in storms, rain and strong wind.

  • Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. A good rule of thumb is ‘if it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down’.
  • If heavy downpours are expected, avoid starting your journey until it clears.
  • If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.
  • Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced.
  • Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.
  • Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.
  • Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.
  • Keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.

What to do when the road is flooded

  • If the road is flooded, turn around and find another route. The number one cause of death during flooding is driving through flood water, so the safest advice is turn around, don’t drown.
  • Although the water may seem shallow, just 12 inches (30cm) of moving water can float your car, potentially taking it to deeper water from which you may need rescuing.
  • Flood water also contains hidden hazards which can damage your car, and just an egg-cupful of water sucked into your car’s engine will lead to severe damage.
  • Never drive through flood water. Turn around.
  • Keep an eye out for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians
  • Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.