WARNINGS are in place for flooding along the Dorset coast on Saturday.

A weather warning has been issued for strong wind on Saturday, and the Environment Agency is saying this could lead to coastal flooding.

Storm Brian is expected to weaken once it reaches the UK and Ireland.

The strongest winds in coastal areas, gusting up to 70mph, are expected to coincide with high tides, leading to potentially dangerous conditions for local coastal communities.

Alison Baptiste, National flood duty manager for the Environment Agency, said: “Strong winds along the south coast on Friday and into Saturday will coincide with high tides. This is likely to cause large waves and spray which could lead to some minor coastal flooding on the south coast.

“We urge people to stay safe along the coast and warn against putting yourself in unnecessary danger by taking ‘storm selfies’ or driving through flood water – just 30cm is enough to move your car.

“Environment Agency teams are on the ground checking defences and taking precautionary measures such as closing tidal gates. We’re working with partners including the Met Office and local authorities to monitor the situation and are ready to respond as necessary."

A Met Office spokesperson said: "The system is typical for the time of year and it has developed mainly as a result of a contrast in temperatures either side of the jet stream, with cooler temperatures to the north and warm temperatures to the south.

"Ex-Ophelia which affected Ireland and Britain on Monday and Tuesday had a different origin as it developed from a hurricane in the tropical Atlantic."

Network Rail has activated its weather contingency plans for some routes and is advising passengers to plan for possible travel disruption.

Temporary speed restrictions are planned to be in place this weekend on several routes, including from Petersfield to Portsmouth and Weymouth.