‘Keep away from the coast’ – that’s the message from the Environment Agency this morning.

It comes as flood warnings are in place along the Dorset coast.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for both Chiswell on Portland and Preston Beach in Weymouth.

The warning for Chiswell has been issued for high water - which is between 9.15am and 12pm.

Waves are forecast to come crashing over sea defences with sea spray expected too, due to high tides and strong winds.

Flooding is also possible for the duration of the strong winds, which will be gusting Force 8 South Westerly.

According to the Environment Agency there is a possibility of flooding for A354 Chiswell, Brandy Row, Pebble Lane, Victoria Square up the junction with Queens Road.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said: “We are closely monitoring the situation.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to keep away from the shoreline as the combination of very strong winds and large waves is extremely dangerous.”

Meanwhile, waves are forecast to come crashing over sea defences on Preston Beach Road at high tide.

The Environment Agency spokesman added: “We believe there is a possibility of flooding of land adjacent to The Sea Life Centre and on the Preston Beach Road area of Lodmoor.

“Single on the road can become hazardous to vehicles.

“Flooding of properties is not forecast at this point.

“Coastal conditions are expected to improve slightly for Thursday evening, however, a significant deterioration will follow with the arrival of Storm Dennis at the weekend.

“We are closely monitoring the situation.”