AN amber weather alert has been issued for Dorset ahead of Storm Eunice after the Met Office upgraded it from yellow.

The fresh warning, which says winds of up to 100mph could be possible along the south west coast, will now be in force from 3am until 9pm on Friday, February 18.

Previously, a yellow alert had been issued for the whole of the county from midnight until 9pm.

The Met Office says the named storm may cause “significant disruption due to extremely strong winds on Friday.”

The Met Office said: “Extremely strong winds may develop over southwest England early on Friday, before spreading north and east during the day.

NEW: Live updates as Dorset braces for Storm Eunice

"Whilst there is still some uncertainty in the track of Eunice, there is an increasing likelihood of widespread inland wind gusts of 60-70 mph and up to 80 mph in a few places.

"Around coasts of west Wales and southwest England, gusts of 90 or possibly even 100 mph are possible. Winds are expected to ease across western areas through the afternoon, and eastern areas during the evening.”

In terms of what to expect, the Met Office said:

  • There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life
  • Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
  • Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
  • There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur and possibly affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
  • Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties
  • It is likely there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees

Speaking to the Daily Echo, a Met Office spokesperson said winds of 60 to 70mph would be widely seen in Dorset with the potential for gusts above this but winds of 90mph could be possible for areas further west of Dorset. 

In Bournemouth, it will be dry on Friday with the odd bit of sunshine as there is no moisture wrapped up in the weather system for the south of the country. 

Bournemouth-based forecaster Dorset Snow had warned that “major disruption” could be expected across the county with damaged buildings and falling trees possible.

Dorset Snow said: “Looks like widespread gusts of 75-85mph between 9am-1pm and the outside chance of 90mph plus in some areas.

"This has the potential to cause major disruption and damage to buildings with a high risk of falling trees.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Graphic courtesy of Dorset Snow 

The weather enthusiast said the whole of Dorset will be “equally affected” by the strong winds.

He said: “Honestly looks like the whole county will be equally affected. Perhaps northwest and coastal Dorset at highest risk.”

Meanwhile, Bournemouth and Poole Weather said Friday’s storm “has potential to be one of the strongest winter storms in years”.