FLOOD warnings are in place across Dorset after sustained rainfall in recent days.

The Environment Agency has issued dozens of warnings across the county, including red alerts for the Lower Frome around Wareham and the Iwerne around Stourpaine and Sutton Waldron.

A red alert means people should ‘act now’, as flooding is expected.

The Environment Agency recommends the following actions:

* move vehicles to higher ground if it’s safe to do so

* move family and pets to safety

* move important items upstairs or to a safe place in your property, starting with cherished items and valuables, then furniture and furnishings

* turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it’s safe to do so; never touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water

* if you have property protection products such as flood barriers, or air brick covers, use them now

* keep track of the latest flood risk situation

It comes after 2023 started with sustained rainfall, with the Met Office forecasting possible showers on Wednesday afternoon (January 4).

“Strong, gusty southwesterly winds easing slightly and becoming more confined to coastal regions and any high ground,” a forecaster said.

“Largely dry with sunny spells, though cloud and outbreaks of rain for the far southwest in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 14C.”

Tonight, they said winds would continue to ease, before stregnthening again overnight – bringing more outbreaks of rain.

And on Thursday, winds would return.

“A wet start with strong southwesterly winds,” the forecaster said.

“These gradually strengthening with coastal gales possible later.

“Rain easing into the afternoon, before a further band of rain arrives in the evening.”

For full flood alert details, log on to https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/alerts-and-warnings.