WINDS of up to 70mph could cause disruption across Dorset next week, the Met Office has warned.

A yellow weather warning for strong winds of up to 70mph has been issued for the whole of Dorset on Monday, January 13.

The warning comes into force at 12pm and will be in place until just before midnight.

The Met Office said the “very windy” weather could cause some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport.

It could also cause problems for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges, with some short-term loss of power also possible.

The Met Office said some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities could be affected by spray with potential for large waves.

A spokesperson said: “An area of very strong winds will move eastwards across the UK through Monday afternoon and evening, clearing eastwards overnight. The strongest winds are expected around exposed coasts and hills in the west of the UK. Here gusts of 60-70 mph are likely, with a few sites perhaps seeing gusts to 80 mph. Inland gusts of 45-55 mph are more likely.”

They added: "A narrow band of squally heavy rain moving east, accompanying the strongest winds, may be an additional hazard.”