UPDATE: 08:55 Friday 23 October PORTLAND BEACH ROAD AND CAUSEWAY REOPENED

The Environment Agency have reopened Portland Beach Road and the causeway following severe weather overnight associated with Storm Austen.

The reopening of the road came into effect at 08:50 following an earlier closure due to flooding. A yellow weather warning is still in place, with the period of highest risk continuing this morning through until 1pm Friday 23 October.

Multi-agency teams are closely monitoring forecasts, local conditions, and water levels. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

The road will remain open unless conditions deteriorate.

What road users should do

People planning to travel today Friday 23 October are advised to: 

• check travel conditions before setting off 
• allow extra time for journeys 
• make essential journeys only when possible  
• be prepared for possible disruption to travel plans
• check with disrupted service pages for local school closures and disruption to travel arrangements.

You can also check for areas of potential flooding at the Check for flooding in England - GOV.UK website.

Residents and visitors across Dorset are also advised to take sensible precautions ahead of the forecast weather, including securing bins and loose outdoor items, taking care around coastal areas and checking that animals and livestock are safe and protected. 

Latest updates will be published on this page. We will continue to keep residents, businesses and road users informed as conditions develop.