09 July 2012
Road users are advised that the A35 near Winterborne Abbas in Dorset is currently closed due to flooding, and is likely to remain closed for at least the next 48 hours and possibly longer.
The Highways Agency which operates and maintains motorways and some major A roads in England is working closely with the Met Office and the Environment Agency to monitor weather conditions and maintain safe roads and reliable journeys.
In this area of Dorset, following exceptional rainfall, the water table is currently so high there is currently nowhere for the water to drain off. The water table has risen an exceptional 10 metres in the past 3 days. It is hoped forecast easing rainfall over the next few days will see river levels recede and allow surface water to drain away naturally. However more heavy rain is forecast for later in the week.
Drivers are currently advised to avoid the area if possible.
Clearly signed local diversions are in place, but through traffic and heavy traffic is advised to use the A36, the A303 and the A30.
Drivers should plan their journeys before setting out, check weather conditions, leave extra time for their journeys if travel conditions are poor, and delay their journey if the weather becomes severe.
Rain and spray can reduce visibility and when the road is wet it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining. It is also important to remember that surface water may affect motorways and major A roads where heavy rainfall occurs.
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