FLOOD alerts have been issued for parts of Dorset and Ringwood with concerns waves may overtop the quay at Swanage. 

An alert for Swanage and the east coast of Dorset will be in force for two hours after high water from 7.45am on Tuesday, February 9.

People have been warned that waves may overtop the quay and esplanade area.

A statement on the Environment Agency website says: “Strong winds from the east north east will raise tide levels at Swanage on Tuesday and generate waves that may cause sea spray and some water to overtop the quay and esplanade area.

“Be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths on the East Coast of Dorset as large waves could be dangerous.

“Consider installing property flood resilience equipment. We are monitoring the situation and this message will be updated if the situation changes.”

A flood alert has also been issued for the Lower Avon between Ringwood and Christchurch until Wednesday.

The Environment Agency said: "We believe there is a possibility of flooding for tributaries between Ringwood and Christchurch. The forecast for the next 2 days is largely cold and dry with some light wintery showers.

"As a result we expect river levels to remain high as the upstream rivers drain down and contribute to flows at Ringwood, with rising groundwater levels further adding to river flow. We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are checking defences. "

People have been urged to avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and to plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers. 

Another alert is in place for Lower Frome at Stinsford with a risk of flooding for tributaries between Dorchester and Wareham.