Walkers, cyclists and riders warned to take extra care

Devon County Council is warning walkers, cyclists and horse riders to take extra care when using paths close to rivers and cliffs over the next few days.

Persistent rain means the ground is saturated and river levels are high, so there is an increased risk of surface water and river flooding as well as the potential for fallen trees and landslips. 

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said:

“Between Christmas and New Year is a popular time for walking and getting outside for some fresh air, but I would advise people to be extra careful when using the  paths and trails  around Devon, especially those close to rivers and cliffs.

“The recent weather means the paths will be sodden, which increases the risk of landslips and falling trees, and many river levels are much higher than usual because of the rain.

“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.

“We are working with colleagues at the Met Office and the Environment Agency to monitor the situation over the coming days, and are ready to respond to emergencies.”

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