Roads warning as Austen moves on but Storm Boelo set to move in

Just as the winds begin to ease after Storm Austen hit Devon this morning (Friday, October 23) road users are being urged to take extra care tomorrow too as Storm Boelo moves in.

Heavy rain is predicted for Saturday (October 24) alongside with winds easing tonight but then picking up again to more than 40mph from mid-morning Saturday.

Devon County Council is reminding drivers and other road users to be ware of potential surface water or flooding issues as well as debris from today’s storm plus potential falling trees and branches on roads tomorrow too.

The council said its control centre dealt with more than 100 calls on Friday morning, mainly reporting fallen trees and branches, alongside flooding and standing water. Gusts exceeding 65mph were recorded in North and north west Devon.

Problems reported so included fallen trees partially blocking the A361 near South Molton, flooding on the B3227 at Stibb Cross and a branch partially obstructing the A388 North Road in Holsworthy.

the council said it has additional staff and crews supporting its highways response through much of the weekend.

But it warned people should expect slower responses to any further incidents caused by Storm Boelo, as teams deal with existing storm damage alongside new problems.

It said reports will be prioritised according to risk and some clearance work may have to wait until conditions are safe for crews.

People are being asked to check weather forecasts and warnings before travelling, drive according to conditions and follow road closure signs. They should take particular care on minor roads and exposed routes.

Fallen trees or branches can be reported online at https://www.devon.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/report-a-problem/report-trees

For a highway emergency requiring immediate attention, call 0345 155 1004.