Strong winds expected for Dorset

There's a yellow weather warning in place today (Wednesday 12th April)

Published 12th Apr 2023

We're being warned to expect 'a swathe of strong winds' across Dorset today.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, coming into effect at 6.00am today (Wednesday 12th April) and lasting through to 8.00pm tonight.

The area in yellow is where the Met Office warning is in place

Gusts of up to 50 mph are expected in inland areas, reaching up to 70 mph on coastlines.

The warning's in place for all of Southern England.

Weather forecasters are warning us what to expect:

  • Some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are likely
  • Probably some bus and train services affected, with some journeys taking longer
  • Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges likely
  • Some short term loss of power and other services is possible
  • Itā€™s likely that some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities will be affected by spray and/or large waves

National Highways advice

There's also a plea from National Highways to 'drive for the conditions' throughout today, while the strong winds are affecting us.

They've warned motorists ā€“ particularly those driving high-sided HGVs, motorhomes and motorcycles, and those towing caravans and trailers ā€“ to check the weather before setting out on journeys.

Drivers should also pay particular attention when travelling across exposed locations which could be affected by the high winds.

Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager for National Highways, said:

ā€œBased on the weather forecasts, weā€™re expecting heavy rain and then high, gusting winds to sweep across the country from the west and weā€™re encouraging drivers to check the latest weather and travel conditions before setting off.

ā€œIf you do intend to travel, then plan your journey and take extra care, allowing more time for your journey.

ā€œIn high winds, thereā€™s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes so weā€™d advise drivers of these vehicles to slow down and drive to the conditions.

ā€œDrivers of other vehicles should be aware of sudden gusts of wind which can affect handling and braking, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, and motorbikes plenty of space.ā€

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