Council bracing for Storm Austen as disruption expected on Devon’s roads
Devon County Council will draft in extra staff this week as fallen trees and branches as well as potential flooding are expected when Storm Austen hits on Friday
Extra staff are being drafted in to Devon County Council’s control room with highways teams on standby as the region braces to receive the first big storm of the season at the end of this week.
An amber weather warning for high winds is in place from the early hours of Friday (October 23) until mid morning and the council’s has reminded Devon’s road users to prepare for possible disruption, especially during the morning commute.
Wind gusts of Gusts of 50 to 60mph are currently forecast, with more than 70mph possible in more exposed coastal locations.
The council is warning motorists and road users that fallen trees or branches may be particular hazard, especially as many are still carrying most of their leaf cover and recent dry conditions may have affected how well some trees are rooted.
A significant amount of rain fall is expected too, so surface water or flash flooding may be possible on some routes.
The council says it will have extra staff on hand in its Network Operations Control Centre and on the network to monitor conditions and coordinate the response to incidents on the county’s roads.
Councillor Dan Thomas, cabinet Member for highways, said: “We’re preparing for a spell of unsettled weather and would encourage everyone travelling around Devon to keep an eye on the forecast and plan ahead.
“With many trees still in leaf following the dry weather, there is a risk of fallen trees and branches on our roads. Strong winds are also forecast before Storm Austen arrives, so please take extra care throughout the week.
“Our highways teams will be responding to incidents, with additional staff supporting our control centre. Please drive according to the conditions and be alert to debris, particularly on quieter roads where hazards may not yet have been reported.”
Fallen trees or branches affecting the highway can be reported through the county council’s website. For a highway emergency requiring immediate attention, call 0345 155 1004.