A business organisation has urged people to support Dorset firms as more storms batter the county.
Gale-force winds of up to 70mph and heavy downpours caused widespread disruption yesterday (Wednesday) in one of the worst storms in recent memory with power cuts, flooding and fallen trees blocking roads and rail lines.
Businesses are battening down the hatches as another low is set to sweep in from the Atlantic with winds of up to 70mph tomorrow (Friday).
Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), which has nearly 700 members, has called for people to support local businesses and also issued advice for companies in the county.
Ian Girling, DCCI Chief Executive, said: “Businesses in Dorset have shown remarkable resilience so far but the storms have made it a very challenging time.
“The storm on Wednesday afternoon was one of the worst so far with trees down on roads and rail lines, and more flooding in coastal areas.
“Some businesses have found it difficult to make deliveries, arrange meetings, see suppliers and get out and about.
“The retail sector is also suffering with customers unwilling to venture out in the rain. Tourism is also very important to the local economy, and it will have felt an impact.
“But Dorset businesses very much remain open and I would urge people to support them with loyalty, custom and understanding as they strive to maintain services at a challenging time.”
Motorists and businesses faced transport chaos on Wednesday afternoon as trees blocked roads across the county.
The Dorset Way, near Tower Park, was closed for four hours from a fallen tree. Trains were suspended for a while on the Waterloo to Bournemouth and Weymouth line because of electrical problems.
Homes in Christchurch and Weymouth were left without power and water levels continued to rise on the coast and in the west of the county.
Gusts of 59 mph were recorded in Bournemouth and 70mph on Portland.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for winds of upto 70mph and heavy rain tomorrow (Friday) and Saturday as another low heads in from the Atlantic.
Mr Girling urged businesses to stay alert and monitor the Environment Agency website but also keep customers informed.
He said: “Check the Environment Agency website, take any necessary precautions and ensure staff are safe.
“Make sure good communication lines with customers and clients are open. Keep websites up-to-date about deliveries, use email and call people to keep them updated.
“Most people don’t mind issues as long as they are kept informed.”
DCCI is Dorset’s premier business support organisation. It has an extensive range of nearly 700 members across Dorset who employ a total of just under 37,000 people countywide.
The Chamber supports and represents businesses of all sizes and sectors.
