Strong winds up to 70mph predicted as Met Office issues weather warning for Dorset

Dorset has seen a mixture of overcast and wet weather in recent days, but this is set to be brought to a halt with "very strong winds".

The weather forecaster has issued a yellow weather alert for wind, which will be in place from 6am until 9pm on Saturday (October 31).

This weather warning covers Weymouth, Portland, Bridport and the Dorset coast as well as neighbouring Devon. 

The Met Office describes the warning as "very strong winds may lead to some disruption on Saturday."

The weather forecaster warns of gusts of between 60-65 mph with speeds up to 70mph on exposed coasts and hills.

The weather alert warns that the rain could also cause disruption to road, rail, air travel while some bus and train services could be delayed. 

The wind warning is in place between 6am and 9pm on Saturday (October 30). Picture: Met Office

It also warns of likely delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges and a possible, risk of some short term loss of power and other services.

In areas where there is flooding, there is also a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

A spokesman for Met Office said: "A belt of very strong and possibly squally southerly winds will develop on Saturday morning with gusts of 60-65 mph, perhaps 70 mph on exposed coasts and hills.

"The winds will become more westerly during the afternoon and gradually ease across England and Wales.

"However they will remain very strong across Scotland and Northern Ireland into the evening, with possible gusts around 75 mph across the Western Isles."

Dorset is expected to experience wet and windy weather throughout the weekend with a mixture of light and heavy rain forecast on both Saturday and Sunday (November 1).

The weather is forecast to improve on Monday (November 2) with some sunny spells and high temperatures of 15 degrees.

A rain weather alert has also been issued for neighbouring Devon between 12am and 2pm on Saturday.

What to do when travelling in rain and strong winds

The Met Office advises people to 'take care' when travelling in heavy rain and also issued the following advice about driving in storms, rain and strong wind.

Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. A good rule of thumb is ‘if it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down’.

If heavy downpours are expected, avoid starting your journey until it clears.

If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.

Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced.

Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.

Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.

Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.

Keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.

What to do when the road is flooded

If the road is flooded, turn around and find another route. The number one cause of death during flooding is driving through flood water, so the safest advice is turn around, don’t drown.

Although the water may seem shallow, just 12 inches (30cm) of moving water can float your car, potentially taking it to deeper water from which you may need rescuing.

Flood water also contains hidden hazards which can damage your car, and just an egg-cupful of water sucked into your car’s engine will lead to severe damage.

Never drive through flood water. Turn around.

Keep an eye out for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians

Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.