Dorset is preparing for more misery as forecasters warn of high winds and heavy rain this week.

Relentless storms have been making lives a misery since before Christmas but there still appears to be no light at the end of the tunnel for the thousands of people affected.

This morning hail, wind and rain has affected journeys into work in the east of the county.

January was the wettest on record and residents across Dorset have been forced to contend with high water levels and dangerous travelling conditions for weeks.

The Met Office has warned of 30mm of rain and wind speeds up to 80mph from tonight and lasting for at least 24 hours.

Further flooding is expected, particularly in central southern England, and there could be huge waves and high tides, leading to flooding.

“The public should be aware of the risk of disruption from flooding, given the rain falling on to saturated ground” said a spokesman for the Met Office.

“Strong winds may cause some damage with disruption due to falling trees particularly likely. With large waves and high tides, there is a further risk of flooding in some coastal areas.”

Last night, residents of the troubled Iford Bridge Home Park met with council leaders and representatives of several other agencies to discuss the recent flooding problems.

Those living at the site were evacuated in the early hours of Christmas Day and again in the New Year and they gathered in their local church to discuss the problems with police, Environment Agency and council representatives.

Yesterday the Sandbanks ferry was suspended for several hours due to the dangerous conditions.