STORM Doris has blown into the county today, bringing winds of up to 60mph, with strong gusts already being felt in the area.

The Met Office yesterday issued a yellow weather warning for the South West including Dorset.

It is predicting winds of between 50mph to 60mph in a yellow warning of wind valid from early this morning until 8pm.

Coastal and hilly areas are particularly vulnerable.

The A353 in Poxwell is blocked due to fallen tree on the power cables near the Ringstead turn.

There are more reports of fallen trees coming in.

In Iwerne Minster on Boyne's Lane a fallen tree is on the road.

In Briantspuddle at The Hollow there are reports of tree down blocking the road.

Trains are delayed on the Weymouth-Waterloo line this morning due to a fallen tree.  The blockage has been reported between Eastleigh and Basingstoke.

If you wish to travel to or from Moreton, Holton Heath or Upwey this afternoon, South West Trains are advising passengers to use the helpoint for alternative transport as there is disruption on the lines due to the weather.

Residents welcomed warm, sunny weather earlier this week. But today will see a return of wind and wintery showers.

The weekend is also predicted to be wet and windy with temperatures back to single figures.

Weymouth-Waterloo operator South West Trains said conditions are not expected to impact on the network, although alterations may be required. Passengers should check before travelling.

Meanwhile, rural insurer NFU Mutual is warning people in the countryside to be prepared for potential damage.

Rural Affairs specialist Tim Price said: “Strong winds in rural areas can cause significant damage as farms and homes are situated on higher ground and less protected by other buildings. Rural areas can be prone to power cuts with lines brought down by high winds and fallen trees.

“It’s important that people are prepared if severe weather strikes and our priority is to provide practical assistance.”