THE Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Dorset coast - but Chiswell on Portland is at particular risk this morning.

The alert was issued on Sunday, meaning 'be prepared' - and remains in force today.

An EA spokesperson said: "The stormy weather continues and we are expecting an ocean surge with large and powerful waves along the coast coinciding with the high tides and force 8 westerly winds.

"Areas most at risk include all coastal locations between Lyme Regis and Weymouth but particularly at Chiswell."

The high tide time at Portland is at 9:28am. We are closely monitoring the situation and our incident response staff are checking defences.

"The offshore tidal surge could increase water levels for one to two hours either side of high water.

"Stay away from Dorset beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths and roads as large waves and sea spray could be dangerous."

For live updates follow our blog here

The Environment Agency has advised residents what to do:

A flood alert means you need to prepare: flooding is possible.

If you haven’t already done so, you should:

sign up for flood warnings

keep up to date with the latest flood risk situation - call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood updates

have a bag ready with vital items like insurance documents and medications in case you need to leave your home

check you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies

plan how you'll move family and pets to safety