Weather warnings are in place in Dorset from this morning as Storm Barra approaches.

The Met Office are warning that Storm Barra will bring very windy conditions to the UK, with severe coastal gales.

Storm Barra is expected to hit the UK at 9am on Tuesday, and the related weather warnings will remain in place until 6pm on Wednesday.

Weather warning in Dorset

The yellow weather warning for wind says there is a small chance of injuries and danger to life due to large waves.

Disruption is also expected on the roads, while power cuts could also be a problem throughout the day.

This is what the Met Office warns to expect:

  • There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
  • There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected
  • There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
  • There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris

Flood warnings in Dorset

There are also flood warnings and flood alerts in place across Dorset.

They are in place along the west Dorset coast.

High water will hit the area between 8.45am and 9.15am.

People are advised to stay away from exposed beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths and roads as large waves and sea spray could be dangerous.

You should also avoid walking close to the cliffs, the Environment Agency warns, due to a "high risk of rock falls" due to the conditions.

A flood warning is also in place for Christchurch Harbour Side this morning.

The Environment Agency says: “Tuesday's tide at 10:30 AM and 00:30 AM on Wednesday will be higher than normal due to stormy conditions associated with Storm Barra.

“South-westerly force 8 winds and large waves will produce a swell within the harbour. Areas most at risk include The Quomps, Mudeford and the Stanpit area Our incident response staff are closing flood gates and checking defences. We are liaising with emergency services and local authorities.”

While a flood alert is also in place for the Dorset coast around Poole Harbour.

The Environment Agency says the areas most at risk include Wareham Quayside and Hamworthy.