Police are advising drivers to carefully consider the necessity of their journeys as Storm Bert continues to wreak havoc across the South West. The storm has caused road closures, river flooding, and fallen trees, making travel dangerous and difficult. Weather warnings for strong winds and heavy rain remain in effect, with flood warnings urging people to take action. The Devon and Cornwall Road Policing Teams are responding to multiple serious accidents and are urging drivers to slow down and only travel if absolutely necessary.
The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is also urging drivers to assess the necessity of their travel due to widespread flooding caused by Storm Bert. Just 30cm of flowing water can make a vehicle stuck or sweep it away, emphasizing the importance of caution. Helpful advice for staying safe during severe weather conditions can be found on their website.
Cllr Stuart Hughes of Devon County Council reported a high volume of calls regarding flooding and road closures, with road networks flowing smoothly for the most part. Travel Somerset has been responding to fallen trees and local flooding, prioritizing main roads for assistance. Several major roads remain closed due to flooding and accidents, creating significant disruptions to travel in the region.
The Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Andy Page, stated that the impacts of Storm Bert will continue to cause disruptions with warnings in place for wind and rain. While the risk of snowfall has diminished, heavy rainfall will affect much of the UK, particularly southwestern parts of England and South Wales. Strong southerly winds are expected to continue, with gusts of over 70 mph in some areas.
Mark Nash, National Network Manager at National Highways, emphasized the importance of planning ahead for journeys during stormy weather and adjusting driving behavior accordingly. Practical advice for traveling in storms, high winds, and gales is available on their website. Storm Bert is expected to clear from the far northeast by Tuesday, bringing quieter weather for many areas. However, there is a risk of further rain and strong winds across the southern UK next week.
Looking ahead, there are indications of a brief return to colder conditions, although it will likely be drier than recent days. The potential return of rain to western areas by the end of the week is uncertain, according to the Met Office. Overall, drivers are advised to stay informed of the latest weather forecasts and exercise caution when traveling in stormy conditions.
