ONCE again the weather took centre stage yesterday.

There was spectacular flooding in some parts of the area, not least at the Quay in Christchurch, where homes and businesses had to get out the sandbags for a little bit of extra protection.

High waves buffeted Mudeford Quay and along the coastline at Poole, some residents were wading in water that was several inches deep.

Meanwhile Condor Ferries cancelled its morning sailing to the Channel Islands.

At Swanage waves battered the seafront and parts of the Lower High Street became impassable.

We are all at the mercy of elements, though thankfully yesterday’s drama was quite a long way short of a crisis.

But, whether it’s high winds, freezing temperatures or torrential rain, it is always advisable to treat the power of Mother Nature with the greatest possible respect.