Storm prompts closure of recycling centres across Devon

Devon County Council has announced that all Household Waste Recycling Centres in the county will remain closed on Saturday, 7 December, due to severe weather conditions forecasted by the Met Office, including a Red Weather Warning for parts of North Devon.

Widespread disruption expected

Storm Darragh is set to bring wet and windy weather across Devon over the weekend, with the Met Office issuing Yellow and Amber warnings, as well as the Red Warning in North Devon, where winds are expected to be particularly dangerous.

The Amber Wind Warning covers the period from 3am to 9pm on Saturday, with gusts likely to cause significant disruption.

Heavy rainfall of 15-25 mm is predicted across the county on Friday and Saturday, with higher ground at risk of localised flooding. Coastal and rural areas may face hazards from fallen trees, flying debris, and beach material washed onto roads.

Travel disruptions are expected, with the possibility of road closures, delayed public transport, and challenging driving conditions due to surface water and reduced visibility.

Council teams on high alert

Devon County Council has confirmed that extra resources, including neighbourhood teams, highway crews, and tree surgery experts, are on standby. The council’s Network Operations Control Centre will also have additional staff to handle weather-related incidents.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highways Management, urged residents to exercise caution, particularly in areas under the Red Weather Warning issued by the Met Office.

"We are well prepared, but I would remind drivers to take care and please drive to the conditions and please consider the Met Office’s Advice to avoid travelling where possible in an area with a Red Weather warning," said Cllr Hughes. 

Advice for residents

The council is asking towns, parishes, and residents to secure temporary festive decorations and remove temporary structures where possible. Falling leaves could block drains and gullies, contributing to flooding.

Residents are advised to:

• Be alert to fallen trees, branches, and blocked drains.
• Avoid driving through floodwater and plan alternative routes.
• Allow extra travel time and maintain safe distances on roads.
• Monitor local radio and weather updates for current conditions.

The council has assured the public that it is prepared to respond swiftly to incidents, as demonstrated during Storm Bert two weeks ago when the majority of the road network was cleared within 48 hours.