Weather warning: Wet and windy weekend ahead

Motorists are being warned to take care on Devon's roads today after heavy rain left standing water in many areas.

Meanwhile, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Devon this weekend.

A spell of persistent rain, heavy at times, accompanied by windy conditions, is expected to affect parts of the South West from the early hours of Saturday onwards into Saturday late afternoon or evening.

20-30mm of rain is expected quite widely across the warning area with 50-70mm on south-facing slopes. Higher ground in southern parts of Devon is likely to see the highest totals with locally in excess of 80 mm possible over parts of Dartmoor.

In addition, southerly gales or severe gales are expected with gusts of 40-50mph inland and locally 65mph over higher ground and south-facing coasts.

As this rain will be falling on near-saturated ground, there is a risk of localised flooding and possible disruption to travel.

The five day forecast for Devon is as follows:

Today:

Very wet, windy conditions, bringing a risk of flooding, with frequent heavy bursts of rain, accompanied by strong winds and gales. Maximum Temperature 11°C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Unsettled, with frequent blustery showers. Winds remaining strong to gale force on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures generally around normal for the time of year, but feeling chilly.

See also: A guide to driving in heavy rain http://www.theexeterdaily.co.uk/news/local-news/rac-guide-driving-heavy-rain

See also: High winds and heavy rain batter Devon - update:  http://www.theexeterdaily.co.uk/news/business-daily-local-news/high-wind...