Newton Poppleford flooding likely worst in 50 years, Environment Agency says

The Environment Agency has described flash-flooding that took place in Newton Poppleford this week as the likely the worst in the village for 50 years.

Roads in Sidmouth and Newton Poppleford were flooded after heavy rain from a thunderstorm on Tuesday afternoon (9 May).

Parts of Exeter and East Devon, including Tipton St John, Metcombe and Newton Poppleford, were hardest hit by the torrential downpours.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "It is likely this is the worst flood experienced in Newton Poppleford for 50 years, exceeding the 2008 flood."

A clean-up operation began on Wednesday to clear mud and other debris left behind after the water subsided.

Devon County Council said that its highways teams were continuing to clear roads, and added that bridges and structures are being inspected for any potential damage.

Temporary traffic lights are in place on two sections of the A3052 at either end of Newton Poppleford. These are on Four Elms Hill, due to a collapse of the road, and on Exeter Road, Newton Poppleford, due to edge subsidence and a dangerous private wall.

Cllr Stuart Hughes (Conservative, Sidmouth) said: "The deluge of rainfall in some parts of the county was extremely intense and it led to localised flash-flooding in several communities.

"Our highways teams are working hard to clear debris from roads to ensure that the network is safe. If you're travelling on Devon's roads, please keep your speed down, take extra care and drive according to conditions."

The Environment Agency has field teams on the ground assessing the impacts of the flooding on flood defences, monitoring river levels, checking flood gates, and clearing trash screens. It is urging people to sign up for flood warnings at https://www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings

If you have experienced flooding you can contact the Environment Agency's 24-hours-a-day floodline on 0345 988 1188.