Downpours make journeys home difficult for drivers

Drivers faced a treacherous journey home after torrential rain caused flooding across Devon.

Fire crews were called to Copplestone to pump out flooded properties and many country roads were only passable with extreme caution.

The Environment Agency currently has flood alerts out for the following areas:

• The Lower River Exe from Tiverton to Exeter, including Bickleigh and Stoke Canon areas
• Hemyock, Cullompton, Stoke Canon, Broadclyst and Clyst St Mary areas
• The Rivers Creedy, Creedy Yeo, Little Dart, Lapford Yeo and their tributaries

Meanwhile, an overturned vehicle and flooding on the Eastbound carriage of the A38 in Kennford after the A379 Junction has blocked a lane and is causing conjestion.

In addition, the A379 Bridge Road in Exeter is partially blocked in both directions between Matford Roundabout and the Glasshouse Lane junction, because of flooding.

Tomorrow sees bright or sunny spells and scattered showers, with some of the showers heavy and there will be a risk of hail and thunder. 

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue issued the following advice:

• Check the websites of the Environment Agency, DirectGov and local news for updates on flood risks and weather warnings. 
• If you live in a flood prone area pre-plan and take positive steps to mitigate the potential effects.
• Prepare an emergency kit including emergency numbers, insurance policy, first aid kit, torch and water. 
• Keep important personal documents safe – placed in a sealed waterproof bag.
• Pack essential items you will need if evacuated – medication, clothing, toiletries and items for children.
• Turn off mains power and water to your property, and take mobile phones and chargers with you if evacuated.
• Do not walk through floodwater – as little as six inches of fast flowing water can knock you off your feet.
• Do not swim in floodwater – the depth and speed of floodwater can change very quickly and there are many hidden dangers.
• Do not drive through floodwater – as little as two feet of fast flowing water can float a car – think how deep is the water, do you need to drive through, do you have another route.  A high proportion of all flood rescues are for stranded motorists in floodwater – your car insurance policy may not cover you for flood damage to vehicles as a result of driving through floodwater – repairs can be very expensive.
• Avoid walking near fast flowing water courses, along riverbanks or crossing pedestrian river bridges.
• Do not walk on sea defences during coastal flooding events.
• Avoid contact with floodwater – it may be contaminated.
• Do not allow children to play in or near floodwater.
• Check on any vulnerable neighbours and see if they need any support.
• Please observe all flood warning signs – they are there to protect you.