A FLOOD warning has been issued for the River Frome, from East Stoke to Wareham.

The Environment Agency (EA) warning means flooding is expected and immediate action is required.

An EA spokesman said: "River levels have risen at the Stinsford river gauge as a result of the ground being saturated and reacting to the rainfall yesterday (Wednesday 23rd December).

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for areas in East Stoke, Holmebridge, Stoborough, Stoborough Green, Wareham, Redcliffe, Ridge and Swineham. No further rainfall is forecast.

"We are closely monitoring the situation."

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Meanwhile, a flood alert, which means flooding is possible and people should be prepared, is in force for the Cranborne Chase area and a large part of West Dorset. This is because groundwater levels have resin over the past few days in response to the ongoing wet weather.

The EA spokesman said: "Residents with property level protection measures should ensure that they are prepared and are ready for use.

"Check that pumps are working, ditches are cleared and sandbags are to hand.

"As most suppliers will be closed over the Christmas period, it is worth checking stocks of fuel for generators and pumps where required."

Some minor roads will start to experience flooding and septic tanks may work less efficiently.