Exeter residents receive government alert

Around three million people, including residents in Exeter and other parts of the South West, received a government emergency alert on Friday as Storm Darragh approached the UK.

The alert, marking the largest use of the UK’s emergency warning system to date, was sent to mobile phones in areas under a Met Office red weather warning, including Devon.

The message, accompanied by a loud siren-like sound lasting 10 seconds, warned of "significant disruption" and potential dangers to life due to the extreme weather conditions expected on Saturday. The Met Office’s rare red warning—its most serious alert—forecasts wind gusts of up to 90mph (144kmph) and is in place from 03:00 to 11:00 GMT.

James Abbot, who lives in Pinhoe, was one of the people who received an alert. He said: "It was quite eerie really. All of our phones went off at once and we wondered what on earth was going on at first."

In Exeter, residents are being urged to stay indoors and avoid travel during the storm. The alert advised people to prepare for potential power outages and communication disruptions by gathering essential supplies such as torches, batteries, and mobile power packs.

“Strong winds can cause flying debris, falling trees, and large waves, all of which pose a serious risk to life,” the government’s alert stated. The message also cautioned against driving, emphasizing the unsafe conditions during the storm.

Coastal areas, particularly along the Bristol Channel and southern Wales, are expected to bear the brunt of the storm. In Exeter residents were advised to secure outdoor items, check on vulnerable neighbours, and monitor updates from the Met Office and emergency services.

For live updates and further advice, visit the Met Office website.