Flood alerts have been issued for parts of west Dorset tonight due to the heavy rain.

The Met Office is warning that the heavy rain may cause flooding in west Dorset near rivers and streams from around 8pm this evening.

This follows a yellow weather warning for rain in force from 3pm today until 6pm on Sunday, February 18.

River levels are forecast to rise on the River Lim, River Char, River Winniford, Simene River, River Brit, River Asker, River Mangerton and the River Bride.

The public is advised to monitor local water levels and weather conditions and to consider putting your flood plan into action. You should avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.

Flooding is also forecast to affect locations near the Upper and Lower Dorset Frome, its tributaries, and the Hooke River, with low-lying land expected to be most affected. This is particularly around tributaries between Toller Whelme and Dorchester, and between between Wareham and Dorchester.

In Weymouth, the flood alert has been issued for River Wey to Radipole Lake, Preston Brook and River Jordan.

Further rainfall is forecast overnight.