Flood warnings issued across Dorset as river levels rise

People living near rivers across Dorset have been told to prepare for flooding amid a yellow weather warning for rain.

The Environment Agency (EA) issued warnings from Bridport to Chideock and Charmouth, as well as Dorchester, Maiden Newton and Beaminster.

The A35, the main route through the county, was closed between Bridport and Dorchester on Monday afternoon due to flooding, National Highways said.

The floodwater has since been cleared and the road reopened.

A number of other road closures were also in place, according to Dorset Council, including Bay Road near Gillingham and Kings Mill Road between Stalbridge Common and Marnhull.

First Wessex buses said its services between Yeovil and Beaminster were being diverted to Bridport via Broadwindsor and Salway Ash because the A3066 was closed.

Bridport Leisure Centre was also forced to close at 15:00 GMT due to flooding and the effect on staffing.

South Western Ambulance Service said it was seeing a higher number of incidents involving floodwater in Somerset and Dorset urged people to avoid flooded areas.

A yellow weather warning for heavy rain was issued across the county by the Met Office through Monday until 18:00 GMT.

A flood warning means the EA considers flooding of homes and businesses is likely, and action should be taken.

The agency said people should "avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses, and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water".

It added: "Residents are strongly urged to take action now."

Under a flood warning, people are also advised to move their valuables and family, pets and vehicles to safety.

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