Council warning motorists to be aware of surface water

Devon County Council is warning motorists to take care when travelling today as the county continues to experience the effects of persistent rain.

All main routes remain open this morning - flooding has been reported on B3180 in both directions in Woodbury at the B3179 junction - but there is an increased risk of both surface water and river flooding as well as the potential for fallen trees and landslips.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, says:

"It is really important that we are all alert to the potential of surface water and residual flooding this morning, particularly in areas where the ground is already saturated and on minor roads where problems may not be brought to our attention straight away.

"I would advise everyone to be cautious when travelling especially in the dark. In particular, don’t drive too fast, and avoid driving through flood water. There are likely to be many potholes underneath surface water which present a hidden danger so drivers need to be aware of those and also of increased breaking distances. 

"We are working with our colleagues at the Met Office and the Environment Agency to monitor the weather situation, and are warning our communities to take extra care.

"It’s also important that people make sure they are up to date with the latest flood and weather warning information, which can be found on the Environment Agency’s website, and via the Met Office. Its also a good idea to listen to local radio stations for weather updates and the latest travel information."

Met Office weather warnings for the South West are issued online here http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/sw/sw_forecast_warnings.html 

Further information and advice about the weather, including the details of agencies involved in dealing with the impacts of severe weather, can be found on the Met Office website here http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/links.html

The Environment Agency flood warnings for the South West are online here http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/34678.aspx?type=Region&term=Southwest&from=fl