Exeter area hit by flooding and travel delays

Devon is grappling with widespread flooding, fallen trees, and high winds following a weekend of stormy weather, with more disruption expected as a yellow weather warning for wind remains in place until 6am tomorrow (Tuesday, January 28).

Among the most affected routes is the A380 Telegraph Hill northbound, where a fallen tree led to lane closures yesterday. The current status remains unclear. Elsewhere, roads across the region have been blocked or rendered impassable:

- A303 Newtown - Upottery: Closed in both directions due to flooding between the A30 and the Eagle Inn.

- A396 Cutcombe Hill - Bampton: Closed due to flooding and a fallen tree between Exeter Inn and Rest and Be Thankful Inn.

- A3052 Boshill Hill - Colyford: Just passable due to flooding near Coly Road and the A358. - **A3072 - Bow:** Just passable with delays due to flooding from Hampson Lane to Nichols Nymett Lane.

- A381 Totnes: Partially blocked due to flooding from Newton Road to Combefishacre Lane, with temporary traffic lights in place.

Flooded and icy conditions have led to bus and rail service delays. The 8:30am Exeter to Barnstaple bus ran 45 minutes late today, with further disruptions expected.

Heavy rain earlier today flooded the railway between Reading and Taunton, forcing trains to run at reduced speed on the line towards Taunton. This has caused delays and cancellations, with disruption expected until 1:00pm on Monday, January 27.

A collision on the A380 at Splatford Split has added to the chaos, leaving the northbound carriageway partially blocked.

The Met Office warns of gusts up to 70 mph along the coast and up to 50 mph inland, leading to potential power outages and disrupted phone services. A new rain warning has been issued for later today, further heightening concerns of travel chaos and property damage.

Stormy weather has caused significant power outages across Devon and Cornwall, with engineers working to restore electricity. Affected areas and estimated restoration times include:

- EX16: 12 properties, reported Sunday 26 January, estimated restoration by 4:00pm Monday 27 January

- EX15: 20 properties, reported Sunday 26 January, estimated restoration by 4:00pm Monday 27 January 

- TA1: 61 properties, reported Monday 27 January, estimated restoration by 2:00pm Monday 27 January

-  TA21 and TA4: 15 properties, reported Sunday 26 January, estimated restoration by 2:00pm Monday 27 January 

Authorities urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to prepare for continued disruptions to utilities.

Drivers are advised to check routes before heading out, allow extra travel time, and avoid floodwaters. Devon County Council has provided local diversions where possible, but conditions remain challenging.

With heavy winds forecast through the night, residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items and stay updated.