Flood warnings issued for North Devon coastal communities

The map with flood alerts. Orange indicates a Flood alert - Prepare. Red indicates Flood warning - Act. (Image: GOV.UK)

placeholder image — The map with flood alerts. Orange indicates a Flood alert - Prepare. Red indicates Flood warning - Act. (Image: GOV.UK)

High tides and gale force winds expected to cause flooding in North Devon

Flood alerts and warnings have been issued via Flood alerts and warnings GOV.UK for North Devon. This means that flooding is expected, necessitating immediate action from residents. A flood warning signifies that flooding is imminent, and individuals should take proactive measures to ensure their safety and protect their property.

The flood warnings issued for North Devon encompass various locations, including:

Clovelly
Westward Ho!
Watermouth Cove
Combe Martin
Ilfracombe
Lynmouth
Bishops Tawton
Tidal River Taw
Tidal River Torridge

These areas are at risk due to forecasted gale force 8 north-westerly winds and offshore wave heights exceeding 3.8 meters. These conditions pose a significant risk of flooding to low-lying or exposed coastal communities.

Gov.uk have advised residents to take the following actions in response to flood warnings:

Move Vehicles to Higher Ground: If safe to do so, relocate vehicles to elevated areas to prevent damage from floodwaters.
Move Family and Pets to Safety: Ensure the safety of all family members, including pets, by moving them to higher ground or to a secure location away from flood-prone areas.
Protect Important Items: Safeguard valuable possessions by moving them upstairs or to a safe place within the property. Begin with cherished items and valuables, followed by furniture and furnishings.
Turn Off Utilities: If safe, turn off gas, electricity, and water supplies to minimise the risk of electrical hazards or water damage. Avoid touching electrical switches if standing in water.
Utilise Property Protection Products: If available, deploy property protection products such as flood barriers or air brick covers to mitigate flood damage.

While conditions are expected to ease during Tuesday evening's high tide, authorities have emphasised the importance of remaining vigilant and adhering to safety precautions.

You can keep track of the latest flooding situation here.