Ellen hits Devon

Storm brings disruption

Gusts of nearly 70 miles an hour hit Devon overnight on Friday when Storm Ellen arrived. 

Trees are down on roads around the county. Some beach huts have been washed into the sea at Woolacombe. A motorcyclist has died in a collision at Kingsteignton, said to be a result of the weather conditions.

A tree has fallen near the Higher Ashton turn off of the B3193 at Teignbridge.

The high winds combined with unusually high spring tides has brought some coastal flooding. Waves of around nine or 10 feet have been reported with the south westerly winds, causing seas to be extremely dangerous with strong rip tides. Spring tides and surging waves mean people could very easily get cut off by the incoming tide. 

Steve Instance, RNLI water safety lead for the south west says:'When we experience conditions such as this, especially during the summer when the region is busy with visitors, it is incredibly important that those heading to the coast keep themselves safe by choosing a lifeguarded beach and visiting within the patrol hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Chief inspector Tom Cunningham said: “We would ask everyone to heed the advice of the RNLI and HM Coastguard by not putting themselves, and indeed emergency responders, at risk by entering dangerous waters. Beaches are a huge draw to tourists in our region, but our coast needs to be respected by all. If you or someone else is in trouble in the sea, you should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

HM Coastguard has this advice if you find yourself caught in a rip current:

• Swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore
• Do not try to swim against the rip current or you'll get exhausted
• Raise your hand and shout for help

A Met Office yellow warning for high winds is in place until 6 p.m. on Friday.