The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning for Iford Bridge Home Park as Dorset is hit by more heavy rain and strong winds.

In a message posted on their website just before midnight the Environment Agency said: "Iford Bridge Home Park will remain very dangerous until at least mid-day on Friday 3rd January. Residents should be aware that high tides may keep river levels in the Iford area high for some time. An 'All Clear' message will be issued on Floodline when the risk passes and it is safe to return to the park."

The warning, which means there is a "danger to life" is one of 14 issued for the south west and was upgraded overnight.

Residents of Iford Bridge home Park were evacuated by Bournemouth Council at 3pm yesterday.

The council made arrangements for overnight accommodation for those who are unable to do so themselves.

This is the second time in eight days residents have been evacuated from their homes after an emergency rescue was carried out in the early hours of Christmas morning due to rising waters.

Residents at the Beaulieu Garden Park Home Site were also advised to evacuate by East Dorset District Council.

Heavy flooding is also predicted at Christchurch Harbour Side and Stour Park Homes.

A flood warning is also in place for Poole Harbour at West Quay and Lower Hamworthy Quay for two hours after high tide from 10.30 am. A wind strength of Force 7 has been forecast.

Farms at Sturminster Marshall, shops in Wimborne, Mill Street in Corfe Mullen, Bridge House Hotel in Ferndown, Brecon Close, Ringwood Road, Throop Road in Bournemouth and Barrack Road in Christchurch were also placed on alert.

Areas of Wareham, Dorchester and Lower Blandford St Mary have also been issued with flood warnings.

The South West looks set to bear the brunt of the storm with flood warnings being put in place at more than 60 locations.

The Environment Agency has also been warning people to keep back if they are on the coast in Dorset today due to an increased risk of being swept out to sea.

Brittany Ferries said that the 6.30pm Cherbourg to Poole sailing has been put back to 8.30pm due to poor weather. Last check-in is at 7.45pm.

In Christchurch, Wharncliffe Road has been closed between Wharncliffe Gardens and Waterford Road due to emergency tree felling works.