The main road connecting Weymouth to Portland has now re-opened.

Portland Beach Road shut earlier today due to flooding and high tides.

The road remained closed for approximately six hours as it was battered by huge waves.

Teams from Dorset Council remained at either end of the highway to assist members of the public with any problems.

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: "Portland Beach Road has now reopened. We still urge all motorists to be careful when driving, as there is still a lot of water and debris on the road and wind is high in places.

"Thank you to everyone for your patience and understanding."

Earlier, a passer-by described seeing a number of coastguard officers stationed at different points along the Causeway.

They added: "Dorset Council seemed to be letting some vehicles through."

Pedestrians were seen walking through the road closure - although this was not advised.

A spokesperson for Dorset Council initially said: "Portland Beach Road is now closed. We have teams at either end of the road to assist with any problems, but we expect the highway to be closed for at least a few hours.

"We'll provide further updates as soon as we know when it is likely to reopen."

During the closure, a spokesperson for Weymouth and Portland Police said: "The A354 Portland Beach Road has been closed from Lerret Road to Ferrybridge and Lerret Road to Hamm Beach Road due to flooding.

"Police strongly recommend that you do not attempt to try to travel to or from Portland until advised that the road is clear and has been reopened."

Dorset Police advised people to stay safe and keep away from the coast as these are not places to visit in the current storm conditions. 

Dorset Council have been receiving lots of reports of standing water and debris on the roads.