Recent flooding in Ferndown – library picture © mags4dorset
Dorset Police together with partner agencies are advising communities that there will be more high winds and heavy rain across Dorset until Sunday 5 January, with severe flooding in some areas.
This is a multi-agency operation and follows monitoring of river and sea levels over the last 24 hour period, the weather forecast indicating further severe weather together with predicted high tides.
The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings for the River Stour in Bournemouth and Christchurch and a severe flood warning for Preston Beach, Weymouth.
The Esplanade in Weymouth including the harbour, Chiswell in Portland and West Bay at Bridport are being closely monitored.
Iford Bridge and Beaulieu Gardens Home Parks in Bournemouth and Christhcurch
Bournemouth Borough Council has evacuated the residents of the Iford Bridge Home Park in Bournemouth. A ‘sign posting’ centre has been set up at the Baptist Church in Owl Road, Bournemouth, with alternative accommodation arrangements being made for evacuees.
East Dorset District Council is advising the residents of Beaulieu Gardens Home Park to consider evacuating as soon as possible. Staff form partner agencies are on hand at the Baptist Church in Owls Road to offer help and advice.
Residents are strongly advised not to return to these sites under any circumstances until they have been told that it is safe to do so.
Preston Beach in Weymouth – severe flood warning
The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning for Preston Beach in Weymouth with road closures an hour before high tide (next time is 5.45pm), however this may change.
Diversions will be in place around the Littlemoor area.
Occupants of properties at risk of flooding who have concerns or are unsure what to do should contact the Environment Agency on 0845 988 1188, visit their website www.environment-agency.gov.uk or call the emergency services on 999 if urgent.
Gale to severe gale force winds will be an added hazard, with the potential for very strong gusts in coastal areas.
Dorset Police and partners are reminding residents to prepare for the adverse weather and advice extreme care be taken in coastal areas.
- Leave in good time
- Take all essential medication with you
- Do not return under any circumstances until you have been advised that it is safe to do so
- Not to travel unless you have to
- Keep your distance from other vehicles
- Keep your speed down – sudden gusts of wind can blow you off course
- Leave extra time to get to your destination
- Show consideration for other motorists, especially when confronted with delays and/or blocked roads
- When visibility is reduced switch on your headlights.
- Exercise caution when approaching standing water on the roads
- Give consideration to the depth of the water
- Do not take any risks driving through flood waters
- Drive through shallow water slowly and be aware of the effect of waves on other road users.
Water rises at Wimborne Minster
