Devon prepares to face rare 'danger to life' weather warning

More preventative measures have been implemented in Torbay as the county braces for rare red and amber weather warnings.

The Met Office named Storm Darragh yesterday (Thursday, December 5), forecasting 80mph winds set to hit parts of the UK on Saturday.

A yellow weather warning has been in place across Devon since 3pm today and will remain active until 6am on Sunday. An additional amber wind warning is scheduled from 1am to 9pm tomorrow.

Earlier today, the Met Office issued a rare red wind warning, predicting possible gusts of up to 90mph over the coasts and hills of West and South Wales, as well as the Bristol Channel coastlines.

In Devon, areas including Ilfracombe, Lynton, Woolacombe, Combe Martin, and surrounding regions are expected to experience some of the most severe impacts.

A red weather alert is the most serious warning issued by the Met Office. It signifies severe weather conditions that pose a danger to life, including flying debris, falling trees, power outages, travel disruptions, and structural damage to buildings and coastal areas.

People living or working along the coast are urged to exercise caution, as large breaking waves can sweep individuals off their feet and out to sea, even from the shore.

Since the Met Office began issuing red warnings in 2011, there have been 20, with typically one or two a year. The most recent red warning was issued in January for winds in northeast Scotland.

Torbay Council has released a statement outlining the preventative actions being taken ahead of anticipated storms with winds of up to 80mph and heavy rain. These measures include:

• Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP): Activated for Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, providing additional accommodation for homeless individuals. Concerns about rough sleepers can be reported at 01803 208723 or via this website.
• Confirmed Closures: SWISCo has announced the Recycling Centre in Paignton will be closed on Saturday, December 7, to ensure public and staff safety. The car park at Oldway is closed until Monday, with warnings to avoid the area due to the risk of falling debris.
• Cancelled or Postponed Events: The live music planned for the Bay of Lights this weekend, including the Alive With Light projections, and the Cockington Christmas Caper have been cancelled.
• Harbour & Coastal Precautions: The Tor Bay Harbour Authority and Beaches teams are taking action. Some vessels may be directed to Torquay Harbour if Brixham reaches capacity. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to avoid beaches and coastlines during the storm.

For safety tips and updates, visit the Met Office website.