DORSET has been hit with heavy rainfall overnight ahead of a weather warning for wind later this evening.

The county has been enjoying a cold but sunny spell in recent days, but Dorset and wider South West was warned to expect heavy rain overnight.

Heavy rain has hit Dorset overnight on Wednesday (March 10), with some areas, including Weymouth, Dorchester and Shaftesbury, experienced up to 8mm of rainfall in one hour. 

A broad look at the county’s major roads suggests the wet weather has not impacted motorists making essential journeys, but drivers are warned to drive carefully in wet conditions.

A South West weather forecast from the Met Office reads: “Murky weather with persistent widespread rain with strong winds.

“A murky day with widespread and persistent rain, heaviest over hills. Although rather mild, it will feel quite cool as the blustery and strong winds increase throughout the day, creating risks of coastal gales.

“Maximum Temperature 12°C.”

The heavy rain is set to continue throughout Wednesday (March 10) as the Met Office predicts heavy rain showers will continue until approximately 2pm this afternoon, before easing off.

More rain showers are expected on Wednesday evening after 6pm, but this won’t be as severe as the heavy rainfall experienced in the early hours of Wednesday.

A yellow weather warning for wind will also be in place in Dorset later this evening between 9pm until 3pm on Thursday, March 11.

According to their weather warning, this is what to expect:

Strong winds accompanied by heavy and blustery showers may bring some disruption to England and Wales.

  • Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely;
  • Some short term loss of power and other services is possible;
  • Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely;
  • Probably some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer.