Dangerous Conditions in Dorset; Severe Weather; Preston Beach Warning; 25-30 people rescued from cars in Dorset

BBC News

"Strong winds and heavy rain are leading to "dangerous conditions" along the Dorset coast, the Environment Agency has warned.
It issued a severe flood warning for the Preston Beach Road area of Lodmoor, Weymouth.
Elsewhere the weather has also caused disruption to transport with fallen trees affecting roads and railway lines.
Wind speeds were recorded at up to 64mph in Portland.
The Environment Agency said: "There may be significant spray and shingle overtopping affecting the Preston Road.
"The public are also advised to avoid the Preston Beach area on foot as conditions are extremely dangerous and will remain so overnight."

Rangers on the Lulworth estate said a landslip had occurred near Durdle Door, although the coastal path did not appear to have been damaged".

25 people rescued from cars in Dorset (up to 30 people, Sturminster, Blandford, Shaftesbury, Sherborne and Wimborne).

Severe Weather Warning, Preston Beach area (Dorset Echo)

Calmer on Christmas Eve, after the severe warning in red below photo:

Environment Agency Severe Warning, Preston Beach (scroll below, left to right), Monday evening:

Severe Warning

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Flood status last changed: Mon, 23 Dec 2013 17:00:00 GMT

Preston Beach

Details of the high tide for the previously issued SEVERE Flood Warning have been updated. The time and date of the forecast high water for which this SEVERE Flood Warning is in force is : 11:00pm (23:00) on 23/12/2013, and will remain in force for 2 hours following high water. The forecast wind direction is South South West, Storm Force 10. Flooding is expected to affect up to 10 properties in the area of the Sea Life Centre and Preston Beach Road area of Lodmoor. Spray and shingle overtopping will be dangerous, the public should avoid the Preston Beach area on foot overnight.