Sidmouth drivers urged to take extra care in high winds

Devon County Council is advising people in East Devon and the rest of the county to take extra care when travelling during the current storm conditions.

Following further torrential downpours yesterday, surface water flooding, landslips and fallen trees have caused disruption on a number of roads across the county.

A Met Office Yellow Warning of strong winds, in force today and extending into Friday, could create further issues with gusts of up to 60mph expected. Coastal areas could bear the brunt of these strong winds.

Among the issues on Devon's roads earlier yesterday included trees down on the A361 near Ilfracombe, the B3193 near Trusham, A3052 Farringdon, Exeter Road in Silverton and the A379 at Labrador Bay in Shaldon. There has been flooding in Polsloe Road in Exeter, Harcombe Road near Axminster and South View Road in Willand, and a landslip was reported on the B3196 Fowlescombe in the South Hams.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: "We would urge people to take extra care when out and about at the moment. These unseasonal storms have created challenging conditions and there could be surface water and debris on the roads.

"Please don't attempt to drive through flood water. Leave extra time for your journey, slow down and drive according to the conditions.

"With thousands of visitors in the county at the moment, people staying at campsites should be aware of the risk of the forecast strong winds and we would urge people not to 'storm-watch' on seafront areas."

Devon County Council is reminding people of the following advice:

• 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.