Flood warnings and alerts are in place across Dorset today following heavy rain last night.

A flood alert is in place for virtually the entire Dorset coast from Lyme Regis to Bournemouth, including Weymouth and West Bay.

Additionally, a flood warning is in place for Upper Frome from Maiden Newton to Dorchester as river levels are high and rising. It is recommended to avoid low-lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and not to attempt to walk or drive through flood water.

Another flood warning is in place for the River Brit at the Skilling Playing Fields and West Bay Road Nursery.

Flooding is also forecast to have affected the River Char at Charmouth, with low-lying land expected to be most affected, particularly around The Street including Catherston Cottages, Robyns Nest, Neighbridge Cottage and Kingfishers.

A spokesperson for the MET Office said: "With the storm last night and into this morning, we are expecting very bad weather to affect the coast of Dorset.

"Very strong winds and large waves could overtop sea defences with sea spray, and the tidal surge will help to increase the water levels.

"Please be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths and roads.

"Avoid using low-lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water."

An update on the situation is expected from the MET Office at noon.