‘Danger to life’ warning issued in Devon and Cornwall

Storm Bram could cut off South West communities and cause a “danger to life” because of flooding, forecasters have said.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for rain covering parts of Devon and Cornwall from 00:00 to 10:00 GMT on Tuesday as the named storm is expected to cause disruption.

It said about 100mm (4in) of rain could fall in a few exposed areas within the warning zone, which is mainly focused on Dartmoor and part of east Cornwall including Launceston and Callington.

Lower level weather warnings for rain and wind from the Met Office remain in place for the region starting at 18:00 and 22:00 respectively.

In its amber warning, the Met Office said heavy and persistent rain would develop over the South West on Monday evening and continue into Tuesday morning.

It said Storm Bram was expected to cause flooding and travel disruption, with homes and businesses likely to be damaged.

“Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life,” the Met Office said.

It added there would be a “good chance” some communities would be cut off by flooded roads and power cuts were likely.

The Met Office said strengthening southerly winds could “exacerbate impacts”.

Devon County Council is warning drivers to take extra care with ground already saturated from recent downpours making surface water and flooding on roads likely, especially between 04:00 and 07:00.

Motorists were urged not to drive through floodwater and allow extra time for journeys, with wind gusts of up to 50mph (80km/h).

The council advised drivers to slow down, keep a safe distance, and stay alert for fallen trees.