Devon could be battered by wind gusts of up to 70mph over the next couple of days as Storm Éowyn moves across the country.
The Met Office has issued a Yellow Weather Warning for wind from 7am to 6pm tomorrow (Thursday 23 January) and all day Friday, as well as a Yellow Weather Warning for heavy rain on Friday from first thing until 9am.
Devon County Council's highways teams have drafted in extra resources to respond to any issues on Devon’s roads, with additional tree surgeons on standby and extra staff being called into the Network Operations Centre.
An initial band of rain will move across the county tomorrow with the strongest wind gusts of 50mph-60mph most likely on exposed coasts and hills, ahead of storm conditions ramping up.
On Friday, rain is forecast to be heavier and localised flooding is possible with widespread areas of the county due to see up to 25mm of rain and as much as 60mm on high ground. Wind gusts are expected to reach around 70mph.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management said: “We’ve seen quite a few storms already this winter and Storm Éowyn could lead to travel disruption over the next few days. Friday in particular is expected to see the worst of the conditions, so anyone out on Devon’s roads could come across surface water flooding and possibly fallen trees.
“We’ll have additional teams on hand to pump gullies and clear debris from roads and every effort will be made to keep roads clear. Although there are currently no Weather Warnings in place for Devon over the weekend, further rain is forecast on Sunday with winds also expected to pick up again throughout the day. Please be aware of the conditions, take extra care and don’t try to drive through floodwater.”
A further weather event is also expected to hit Devon on Sunday and therefore if out and about this weekend take extreme care.
Comments