A warning has been issued as cliff falls are expected in west Dorset as a summer of extremely dry weather takes its toll on the environment.
Dorset Council has urged people to remain vigilant and protect themselves while walking on the coast as the risk of rock falls near beaches increases with the current warm conditions.
Prolonged spells of hot, dry weather will affect cliff stability, the council has said, as cracks will begin to occur, making it more likely to fall away.
Furthermore, when the wetter weather eventually returns, loose material is more likely to be forced away from the cliff with downpours, leaving people vulnerable.
After an unbelievable lack of rainfall this summer, showers are forecasted for this week across parts of Dorset, particularly on Thursday, August 20, where there is a 60 per cent chance of rainfall by midday, according to The Met Office.
Just last week, residents criticised a teenage boy that was seen risking his life while posing for a photo eye-wateringly close to the edge of East Cliff, which is prone to landslips throughout the year.
A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: “Hot weather could mean a greater risk of rockfalls.
“Long periods of hot, dry weather can affect cliff stability. As rocks heat up and cool down, small cracks can develop or widen. Dry conditions can also leave loose material more vulnerable when heavy rain eventually returns.
“When rain does arrive, water can quickly seep into natural fractures within cliffs, increasing the chance of rocks and debris becoming unstable and falling.
“Rockfalls and landslips can happen at any time and often without warning.”
The council has advised people to keep away from cliff edges and the base of cliffs if walking below, stick to marked paths and follow warning signs, stay alert to changing conditions and check tide times before visiting the coast.
The spokesperson continued: “Our cliffs are constantly changing as part of the natural processes that shape our coastline. While these changes create the landscapes we value and enjoy, they can also present real hazards. Stay safe and enjoy the coast responsibly.”
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