Devon braced as Storm Agnes arrives

North Devon expected to get most of it

Road users are being urged to take extra care on Devon’s roads as Storm Anges approaches.

Exeter’s Met Office has issued yellow warnings for strong winds from midday until 7 a.m. Thursday morning [28 September] with gusts reaching up to 60mph, particularly in coastal areas.

Devon County Council has drafted extra staff into its control centre to monitor the network, and Devon Highways have teams on standby to deal with any issues that may crop up on the roads.

Councillor Stuart Hughes said: “We've already seen horrendous conditions this autumn with the recent heavy rain, but Storm Agnes is the first named storm this season and the warnings about the potential of extremely strong winds. There is a chance of trees, branches and other debris being blown onto the highway so please take extra care.

“Additional staff will be on duty to cope with any increase in calls to the control centre and Devon Highways will have extra teams ready to call upon if needed. If you're out on Devon's roads, particularly when it's dark, please allow more time for your journey and drive according to conditions. Keep up to date with the latest conditions by tuning in to travel updates and weather forecasts and please plan your journey.”

Although rain is forecast for a time tomorrow, it is not included in the weather warning. However, following the recent flash floods, further downpours on already saturated ground may lead to surface water issues.

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;

• Consider if your journey is essential 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 and leave plenty of room if you’re overtaking;

• Drive with care and according to the conditions.

For more information, travel advice and updates follow @DevonAlert on Twitter and Facebook.