A flood alert has been issued for the Dorset coastline, with warnings about an 'ocean surge' and 'large, powerful waves'.

The Environment Agency issued the alert on Sunday, with an update expected on Monday afternoon.

In it, they said: "The stormy weather continues and we are expecting an ocean surge with large and powerful waves along the coast tonight coinciding with the high tide and force 8 westerly winds.

Read more: Could parts of Dorset see SNOW tonight?

"Areas most at risk include all coastal locations between Weymouth and Christchurch but specifically at Preston Beach.

"The high tide time for Weymouth this evening is 9:20 PM and the offshore tidal surge could increase water levels for one to two hours either side of high water. We are closely monitoring the situation and our incident response staff are checking defences.

"Stay away from Dorset beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths and roads as large waves and sea spray could be dangerous. This message will be updated tomorrow afternoon by 2:00 PM or as the situation changes."

The flood alert area includes Castletown, Weymouth, Preston Beach, Swanage Bay, Studland Bay, Sandbanks, Poole Harbour, Bournemouth Beach, Hengistbury Head and Christchurch Harbour.