DORSET has been put on alert with new warnings for flooding in place along the west coast, as people are urged to stay away from beaches.

The Environment Agency is warning that flooding is possible all along the coast at Lyme Regis to Weymouth and Portland, with Chiswell expected to be most at risk.

Following the 90mph winds in Storm Eunice, a new storm is set to hit the county later on today and throughout Monday.

Storm Franklin is expected to bring high winds between 65-75mph in coastal areas, and more widely 50-60mph further inland.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “We are closely monitoring the situation and our incident response staff are checking defences.

“The offshore tidal surge could increase water levels for one to two hours either side of high water.

“Stay away from Dorset beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths, and roads as large waves and sea spray could be dangerous.”

Powerful waves along the coast are ‘expected’ tonight and tomorrow coinciding with the high tides and force eight westerly winds.