Devon set to face more storm conditions

More storm conditions are on the way with heavy rain forecast for Devon tomorrow, followed by rain and strong winds at the weekend.

Devon County Council is reminding people to take care on the county’s roads as the Met Office has issued a Yellow Warning for heavy rain from 3am tomorrow (Friday 28 February) morning until 6am on Saturday morning and a Yellow Warning for strong winds from midday on Saturday until midday on Sunday.

Storm Jorge has been named by the Spanish meteorological service (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología). The heaviest rain is expected on Friday evening, when more than an inch (up to 30mm) is forecast, and wind gusts could reach up to 60mph on Sunday.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “There seems to be no let up from the rain so this latest storm could lead to disruption on our roads. Although the forecast rainfall may not be as severe as previous storms, the rain will be falling on saturated ground so there is a risk that it could lead to surface water and flooding. With the combination of heavy rain and strong winds we would remind people to continue taking extra care and to be aware of the conditions.”

Devon County Council is reminding people of the following advice:

• Avoid overnight travel unless absolutely essential as roads will always be more hazardous at night with poorer visibility;
• Be alert to fallen trees and branches, particularly on minor roads where they may not have been reported;
• When the wind is at its peak, consider if your journey is really necessary, and be alert to weather warnings;
• Never drive through floodwater or swollen flowing water, you don’t know how deep it is. Find an alternative route;
• Allow additional time for your journey;
• Reduce your speed and leave more space between you and the vehicle in front;
• Drive with care and according to the conditions.

For more information and travel advice from Devon County Council visit www.devon.gov.uk/winter_travel or for updates on Twitter follow @DevonAlert