DORSET is braced for a storm this weekend just two days after snow brought chaos to the county. 

The Met Office has warned of flooding from “heavy and persistent” rainfall and winds of up to 70mph along the coast on Saturday and Sunday, November 23 and 24. 

Two yellow weather warnings have been issued, one from 6am on Saturday until midnight on Sunday for rain and another for wind from 3pm on Saturday until the end of the weekend. 

Several planned events have either been axed or postponed because of Storm Bert, including Christchurch’s Christmas lights switch on event planned for Saturday evening. 

Simon McCormack, chairman of the Christmas Working Group, said the town council is “incredibly disappointed” to have to cancel this year’s event. 

Meanwhile, Poole’s maritime-themed lights will be switched on without a show (like in Christchurch) but the Santa parade, Gugge 2000 band, Poole's Choirs at Christmas and fire performance have all been put on hold. 

The Met Office said Storm Bert will bring the strongest gusts along coasts with gusts of between 60-70mph possible around exposed headlands. 

Bournemouth-based forecaster UK Extreme Weather added: “Dorset can expect a prolonged period of very gusty winds between 50-70mph.  

“Along with rain for basically the entire weekend, it’s looking like a vile weekend of weather.” 

A spokesman for the Met Office said: “Strong winds due to Storm Bert likely to cause dangerous coastal conditions and disruption across southern England.” 

Jane Parkinson, Mudeford RNLI water safety officer, said high winds mean “dangerous” sea conditions and urged people to exercise “extreme caution” along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers. 

She added: “Check the weather and tide forecast and stay away from the sea at high tide. Also check your surroundings if you do go out.  

“Storms can change the landscape of beaches, changing or damaging access points, and creating shelving beaches where you can easily lose your footing and find yourself in deep water. 

“Beware of large waves: even from the beach, large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and drag you out to sea.” 

She said keep away from the sea and added if you see somebody in difficulty, to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. 

South Western Railway's spokesman added: "This weekend, you are advised to only travel west of Basingstoke if your journey is essential."