DORSET residents may need to batten down the hatches as the tail-end of Hurricane Bertha could result in 60mph winds this weekend.

The Met Office says that persistent heavy bursts of rain is expected tonight, with maximum temperatures of 12C, combined with strong coastal winds causing large waves in the area.

Sunday will continue to be wet and windy, with the risk of severe gales, which will ease into showers.

The Environment Agency said that there is a potential risk of flooding tomorrow and Monday, which could see as much as 30mm of rain fall in just three hours.

It also advised residents to regularly check the flood risk situation through reports and potential weather warnings over the next 48 hours.

Dorset County Council has told people to prepare for heavy downpours this weekend.

A spokesman said: “Low-lying campsites, car parks and caravan parks may be affected by the rain and outdoor events could suffer very muddy or even waterlogged conditions.

“Beaches and other coastal areas could also be hit by large waves and, if this happens, people should stay a safe distance from the shoreline.”

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