Further overnight slip at Eype rockfall

Coastguards warn passers-by to keep clear.

Author: George SharpePublished 15th Apr 2021

There's been further overnight slippage after a rockfall between Eype and Seatown.

Experts are warning after such a large fall further landslips are likely.

The ground has become unsettled because of the varying temperatures. Dorset has experienced both frost and a heatwave in the last month.

Rob Sansom is the senior coastal operations officer for Dorset's Coastguard.

He said:

"What tends to happen is once you've had a large fall, it's followed by a number of smaller falls until the area becomes more stable.

"The biggest risk is people who want to have a look at it putting themselves at risk if they are either at the cliff top trying to look down over it because the ground they're stood on is not stable and could fall away as well.

"Obviously if they're down on the beaches looking up to it, they're putting themselves at huge risk if they get too close to the area.

"If you see anybody who you think is in trouble, call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

Dorset Council have closed the area off and shut some paths to stop people getting too close.

Rockfalls can, and do, happen at any time. The Jurassic Coast looks the way it does because of erosion - meaning it is always on the move.

Remember, the golden rules:

  1. Stay away from the edge of the cliff top - admire the view from a safe distance
  1. Stay away from the base of cliffs: rock falls and landslides can happen at any time. If you are under a rock fall, the likelihood is you will die
  1. Pay attention to warning signs - they are there for your safety
  1. Check tide times before you set off to avoid being cut off by incoming tides
  1. Be aware of mud flows extending across the beaches - don't get stuck
  1. Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edge

Matt Reeks, Dorset Council's Service Manager for Coast & Greenspace , said:

"The Jurassic Coast is a wonderful place to visit, but it's important to use common sense and caution - stay away from the edge and base of cliffs and always pay attention to warning signs and safety messages."