West Dorset has been hit by flash flooding.

Bridport, Beaminster and Burton Bradstock all experienced torrential rain and thunderstorms earlier. 

There was very slow traffic on South Street, Bridport, as a result of flooding on the road.

Chard & Ilminster News:

  • South Street, Bridport, this afternoon   Picture: The Bridport Flyer

Drivers were also urged to take care on the coast road, as heavy rainfall flooded Burton Bradstock.

A spokesman for Bridport Fire Station said: "We are receiving multiple calls about flash flooding in the Bridport area.

"If floodwater starts to enter your home, turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies."

 

Chard & Ilminster News:  Picture: Burton Bradstock Parish Council 

 

The Met Office predicted thunderstorms and heavy rain in some parts of Dorset throughout the morning, and West Dorset appears to have been hit particularly badly.

A yellow weather warning is in place until midnight on Wednesday for storms.

The yellow weather warning says: "While some places stay dry, others are likely to see thunderstorms with torrential rain bringing some disruption.

  • Flooding of homes and businesses could happen quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds.
  • Fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life.
  • Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.
  • Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.
  • Some communities might become cut off if roads flood
  • Power cuts might occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost

Chard & Ilminster News:

  • Burton Bradstock today    Picture: Burton Bradstock Parish Council 

Pictures show cars submerged in water, and some residents reported using buckets and sandbags in their homes to control the influx of water coming in. 

 

Businesses were affected, including Bridport Leisure Centre, Rockburn and Groves Nurseries. 

 

Posting on social media, Groves said it would need to close for the rest of the day as the shop has completely flooded and taken out the electrics. 

This evening, most of the water  appears to have cleared and there are no longer any issues reported on the roads.