PEOPLE are being warned to stay away from cliff bases and edges during the heatwave.

Dorset Council is appealing to beach visitors to take extra precautions as temperatures rise due to an increased risk of rock falls.

The warning comes just days after visitors to a Dorset beach had a close call when rockfall landed mere metres away from them.

The incident happened along the cliffs of the the eastern part of Charmouth each - near to Soft Rock Cafe on Monday evening.

Sandra Smith, who was kayaking just off the coast at the time, said: We were paddling in a double kayak when we heard a crack, I looked over to beach, I had a camera in my hand at the time and I took photo.

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“I saw falling debris, some small rocks and shingle falling and significant dust cloud. I was very surprised there appeared to be no reaction from below or the guys just west of dust who were still hammering the cliff. The people sitting on the beach never even looked up, incredible! I’m glad no one was hurt.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Visitors had to Charmouth beach had a shock on Monday with rockfall landing just metres away from them. Picture: Sandra Smith.Visitors had to Charmouth beach had a shock on Monday with rockfall landing just metres away from them. Picture: Sandra Smith.

In extreme temperatures, the risk of rockfalls along Dorset’s coastline is even greater than usual. This is because heat causes rocks to expand and, particularly during heat fluctuations, any pre-existing cracks can widen, and new cracks can also form – making cliffs potentially more unstable.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning covering Sunday to Tuesday for "exceptionally high temperatures" across Dorset.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:

“Rockfalls are entirely unpredictable and can happen at any time, but we do know which conditions make them more likely, and prolonged hot and dry spells are one of them.

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“We would encourage anyone thinking of visiting the Dorset coast during this heatwave to stay away from the base of cliffs, and if you are walking along the coast paths, keep well away from the edges. Never ignore a warning sign – they are there for your safety.

“It is easy to enjoy the spectacular and fascinating Jurassic Coast without putting yourself or others at risk.”