Flood warnings have been issued by the Environment Agency for four different areas of Dorset as adverse weather conditions loom. Christchurch Harbour, the Lower and Middle Stour, and Poole Harbour are all expected to see rising water levels due to anticipated high tides. The Environment Agency has cautioned residents about the increasing risk of flooding, especially for low-lying land and roads situated near rivers or the coast.
According to the Environment Agency, areas surrounding Christchurch Harbour, including Mudeford, Stanpit, the Quomps, and Wick, are among those most at risk. Similarly, Wareham Quay, Ridge, Redcliffe, and Swineham will likely face significant flooding around Poole Harbour. The situation along the Stour River is also precarious, with water levels approaching those capable of causing property flooding. Reports indicate the level at Wimborne near the A31 is currently at 1.11 meters, with concerns growing as it exceeds 1.38 meters. At Throop, the river is at 99 cm, and flooding of homes is possible if it rises above 1.3 meters.
Specific areas expected to be most at risk include farms located at Sturminster Marshall and Cowgrove, as well as businesses and residences along Mill Street in Corfe Mullen, Bridge House Hotel in Ferndown, and various roads throughout Bournemouth and Christchurch. The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have warned, "Be careful when driving with all the standing water on the roads this morning and be mindful as the temperature gets colder throughout the day." This advice highlights the need for caution among the public with prevailing road hazards.
Meanwhile, forecasters are predicting the possibility of snowfall across Dorset as early as Wednesday afternoon, January 8. Dorset Snow, an enthusiastic weather forecasting group based in Bournemouth, indicated there’s "an increasing risk of snowfall" as low pressure moves over the Channel. They noted the potential for snow accumulations, especially across high ground, with coastal areas remaining marginal for significant snow. Initial forecasts suggest rain and sleet showers may occur Monday morning, potentially transforming to snow overnight and intensifying through Tuesday morning.
Poole UK Weather expressed similar sentiments, projecting light snow across some parts of Dorset by Tuesday. They elaborated, "Rain and sleet showers Monday morning perhaps turning to snow by the evening," indicating varying intensities of snowfall, especially along the western parts of Dorset. These predictions come as the Met Office cautions of dropping temperatures, forecasting the possibility of sub-zero conditions throughout midweek.
Nationally, recent weather has resulted in amber and yellow warnings across various regions, causing significant disruptions due to heavy snow, travel delays, and accidents. Airports across the country had to halt operations for several hours, plagued by heavy snowfall, leading to stranded vehicles and collisions on key roads particularly across northern England. Mike Silverstone, Deputy Chief Forecaster, has warned, "The low pressure... will allow a cold northerly flow to become established again for much of next week," hinting at continued perilous weather conditions.
Looking forward, the potential for snow remains high, with weather authorities monitoring developments closely. Further warnings could be issued as conditions progress through the week, especially with the likelihood of additional snow impacting southern and central England, as well as Wales, around midweek.