West Dorset is bracing itself for the full force of Storm Ciarán.
Flood warnings and alerts are in place across Dorset as torrential rain continues to batter the county.
The powerful storm is due to hit Wednesday and Thursday, with the south coast - including Dorset - expected to bear the brunt.
The Met Office has issued a ‘danger to life’ warning as Storm Ciarán will bring with it strong winds and yet more heavy rain.
Here are the flood alerts and warnings in place so far:
West Bay
A warning - meaning flooding is expected and residents should take action now - is in place at West Bay.
The area covered by the warning includes: Properties along and behind the Esplanade, Quayside, Heron Court, Forty Foot Way, Driftwood, Fourviews, Britbank, Barwick, Sunset, Riverside, George Hotel, Colmer Lodge and Parkdean Holiday Park.
West Dorset rivers and streams
Currently, this area is on flood alert, meaning flooding is possible. Advice is to avoid using low lying footpaths in these areas or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one.
The area covered by this alert includes Rivers Lim, Char, Winniford, Simene, Brit, Asker, Mangerton and Bride.
River Axe
READ: Storm Ciaran tracker: Met Office shows time storm will hit
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind and rain for both Wednesday and Thursday.
With #StormCiarán arriving, if you live in an area liable to flooding, ensure you’ve stocked up on sandbags, or equivalent, from your local builders' merchant. Alternatively contact your local town/parish council, if they hold sandbags for community use https://t.co/ZJuNFiqGbF pic.twitter.com/7CJOlonlZB
— Dorset Council UK (@DorsetCouncilUK) October 31, 2023
It says flying debris ‘could result in a danger to life’ and that damage to buildings and homes is possible, with roofs blown off and power lines and trees brought down.
READ: RNLI urge public to stay safe at the coast ahead of Storm Ciarán
Roads, bridges and railway lines may close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights.
Power cuts could occur and affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage.
It says there is potential for large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Dan Suri, said: ‘Ahead of Storm Ciarán, a squally cold front will move eastwards across southern and southeast England bringing bursts of heavy rain and coastal gusts of 60-70mph, mainly from Dorset eastwards.
“Wind and rain warnings associated with Storm Ciarán are in force from Wednesday night onwards into Friday.”
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