Dorset is being lashed by wet and windy weather today.

Flood warnings are in force and people are being advised to take care near the coast

Authorities have been monitoring Preston Beach Road in Weymouth this morning where a flood warning - meaning flooding is expected - is in force.

It is warned there may be significant spray and shingle overtopping affecting the coast road.

Flood alerts - meaning flooding is possible - are in place at Weymouth Harbour and along the west coast of Dorset including West Bay.

Motorists are advised to drive with care as there are reports of standing water on the roads, making conditions difficult.

#TravelDorsetAlert: A37 between Yeovil and Dorchester reports of areas of standing water.

A yellow 'be prepared' weather warning is in force until midday today.

The Met Office says: "Persistent, and at times heavy rain will develop over parts of south Wales and southwest England into the early hours of Wednesday, easing later on Wednesday morning.

"During this period 15-25mm of rain is expected widely with totals of 40-60mm over some hills exposed to the strong southerly winds. Some intense bursts of rain, as well as autumn leaf fall blocking drains, increases the likelihood of impacts."

A separate yellow weather warning is in force for all day Friday as a spell of heavy rain and strong winds is expected.

The weather warning area is for the whole of the south west including Dorset.

The Met Office says: "A band of heavy rain is expected to move east during Friday with widely 15-25mm of rain falling and perhaps 40-60mm over higher ground.

"This will be in addition to other spells of heavy rain earlier in the week affecting a similar area.

"Rain will be accompanied by strong winds with gusts of 50mph possible inland and perhaps 60mph around some coasts."