ALERT: Devon braces for heavy rain as yellow weather warning hits South West

Devon is preparing for a wet start to the week as the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain across the South West of England, effective from early Monday morning. 

The warning highlights the potential for travel disruption, surface water flooding, and localized power outages.

Rain is expected to move into the region late on Sunday evening, becoming widespread across Exeter and surrounding areas on Monday before clearing to the east by Monday night. 

Forecasters predict 20–30mm of rain across much of the city, with higher totals possible on elevated ground. In other parts of the South West, rainfall could reach 50–80mm. 

Strong south to southwesterly winds will accompany the rainfall, with gales possible along coastal areas and over high ground.

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Met Office Chief Forecaster Rebekah Hicks said: “Wider yellow warnings for rain have also been issued for the southwest and northwest of England, central and northern parts of Wales, as well as southwest Scotland, with disruption possible in these areas through the day.”

Authorities have warned residents to take precautions. Richard Preece, Duty Tactical Manager at Natural Resources Wales, said the combination of saturated ground and swollen rivers could lead to surface water flooding. 

He advised residents to prepare flood plans, move vehicles to higher ground, and protect valuable possessions. 

The British Geological Survey also noted the potential for landslides on saturated slopes, which could affect roads and railways.

Local people should expect spray and flooding on roads, which may lead to difficult driving conditions and delays to public transport. 

There is a small risk of some communities becoming temporarily cut off, and a slight chance that homes or businesses could be flooded. 

Power cuts and disruption to other services are also possible in affected areas.

The Met Office advises residents to monitor local forecasts, check travel conditions before setting out, and have an emergency kit ready with torches, batteries, and a charged mobile phone. 

Sunday is expected to be largely dry, offering a brief window of respite before the wet weather returns on Monday. 

The week ahead is forecast to remain unsettled, with further bands of rain, showers, and occasional sunny spells.