Strong winds and high tides bring havoc to North Devon

North Devon faced the continuation of Storm Kathleen as high tides and powerful winds battered the region last night (April 8) leading to significant flooding and damage to coastal areas. 

Yellow warnings were issued ahead of the storm's arrival, cautioning residents about the potential impact of strong winds and large waves during high spring tides.

The forecast for April 8 predicted winds of up to 35 mph, with gusts reaching 50 mph around the 7.13am high tide in Ilfracombe, marking one of the highest tides of the year. 

As a precautionary measure, Devon Alert issued warnings and advised residents to avoid certain areas. 

The seafront at Instow was closed due to the expected high tide, with authorities urging people to steer clear of the affected area.

In addition to the coastal havoc, a landslip prompted the closure of an A-road in North Devon, adding to the disruption caused by overnight weather conditions. 

The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for wind across large parts of the county, while flood warnings were also in effect.

Although the storm warning has passed, North Devon continues to experience windy conditions, with further rainfall expected. 

Flood warnings remain in place for several areas along the North Devon coast, including Ilfracombe, Westward Ho!, Combe Martin, and the Tidal River Torridge from Weare Giffard to Bideford.

Cllr Frank Biederman provided updates on the situation via social media, acknowledging the significant impact of Storm Kathleen on Instow. He highlighted the removal of approximately 8 feet of sand from behind the sea wall and mentioned ongoing efforts by the Environment Agency to clear water and debris near the Instow floodgates.

"Mother Nature has, on the whole, done a great job at Instow, by removing about 8ft of sand from behind the wall," Cllr Frank Biederman stated on his Facebook page.

Reports of damage also surfaced from Westward Ho!, where severe winds caused disruptions to the seafront. 

James Moore Photography shared images depicting the aftermath of the storm, including displaced container shops and relocated concrete blocks, indicating the intensity of the coastal battering.