Hurricane-force winds to hit the South West
The Met Office warned that hurricane strength winds of up to 80mph will hit the South West again today to again test the regions already battered storm defences.
In the fifth consecutive day of extreme weather conditions the public has been told to prepare for even more flooding, transport disruption and power outages across Devon.
The winds will reach their peak at mid-day today as the weather system pass over the county but potential hail storms and heavy rain can still be expected until much later in the day.
Speaking after his return from the South West yesterday the Prime Minister, David Cameron said: “There is absolutely no sign of this threat abating and with further rain and strong wind forecast throughout the week things may well get worse before they get better.”
Winds have caused a lorry to overturn on the A39 in Bideford blocking the road in both directions.
The A38 has also been closed at Carkeel in Cornwall due to a serious road traffic collision involving a single vehicle. Diversions are in place but the public is asked to avoid the area if possible.
Winds speeds are expected reach between 50-60mph but could top 80mph in more exposed coastal areas and up to 100mph in North Wales.
Today’s winds are expected to change from gale force 9 to violent storm 11 at mid-day and even reach Hurricane-force 12 on Lundy Island, off the Devon coast.
More strong wind is expected tomorrow but will slacken off in the evening but added issues with ice will mean driving conditions will still be difficult.
Mr Cameron also offered thanks to the response to the storm and flood damage.
“I’ve just come back from some of the worst affected areas in the south West and the Thames valley. I’ve seen our hard working emergency services and Environment Agency staff working around the clock to help families and communities.”
“On behalf of the whole country I want to thank all our emergency services, all Environment Agnency Staff, all local authority workers and all volunteers for what they are doin in these most difficult and relentless circumstances.”
In response to the further flood and strom fears The Devon Community Foundation this week launched an appeal to help those affected across the county.
The Foundation says it works closely with agencies across Devon to make sure that funds raised are used affectively by those most in need.
In an announcement this week, the Devon Community Foundation says:
"The response within the communities themselves has been magnificent but there is only so much they can do for themselves."
"Devon Community Foundation is urgently appealing for donations to relieve the immediate hardship people are facing and support their recovery over the coming weeks and months."
"With your help, we will help families and communities get back on their feet as quickly as possible."
The DCF has set a target to raise £100,000, with which it will:
• Provide emergency relief grants to people whose homes have been flooded to meet the immediate financial burdens of moving out, pumping and drying, and emergency repairs. These are £250 and usually awarded within 48 hours of receipt of an eligible application.
• Help those who face additional financial burdens as a result of the flooding, for example through loss of earnings, extended daily commutes and school runs.
• Support local micro-businesses to ensure their survival and swift recovery as an essential part of the local community and economy through grants, and where applicable, loans.
• Support counselling and other support services to help people cope with the emotional stress caused by the flooding in the short and medium term.
Anyone seeking financial assistance as a result of flooding in Devon can contact Devon Community Foundation for further information and to find an application form and guidelines, on their website
Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/DevonFloodFund
