'Immediate action' flood warnings issued as torrential rain hits Cornwall and Devon
The Met Office weather warning for downpours has been shortened and will now be in force until 5pm on Saturday 20th February
Last updated 20th Feb 2021
Several flood warnings have been issued as torrential rain hits parts of Cornwall and Devon.
One of the warnings covers the River Tamar from Greystone Bridge to Cotehele.
Two others are in force for the River Lyd, just over the border at Lifton, and the River Torridge from Dalton to Bideford.
The warnings mean flooding is expected and immediate action should be taken to protect homes and businesses.
"Flooding is expected this morning Saturday 20th February. Overnight rain has caused the River Tamar to rise and the river is forecast to continue rising through the morning and early afternoon.
"Heavy, persistent rain is due to clear the catchment this morning but bands of heavy rain will continue for the rest of the day.
"Properties and low lying areas around Bradstone Mill, Tutwell, Gunnislake, Morwellham Quay and Cotehele will start to flood first from around 07:00 on Saturday.
"River levels are forecast to peak around mid-afternoon, after which the river level could remain high for some time.
"Peak water levels are expected to be similar to those seen on December 19th 2020.
"Flood waters may be deep and fast flowing.
"Residents are strongly urged to take action now. Remain safe and be aware of your local surroundings.
"We will be closely monitoring the situation and this message will be updated as the situation changes. Our staff are in the area ready to respond as required".
Flood Information Service
Flood alerts are also in place for the West Cornwall Rivers, North Cornwall Rivers, the River Fowey, the Rivers Looe and Seaton, the River Lynher and the Upper, Middle and Lower River Tamar.
You can check the latest flood warnings and alerts for Cornwall and Devon here.
The Met Office weather warning for rain has been updated to last until 5pm on Saturday 20th February, covering areas from Bodmin to Launceston and Saltash and parts of Devon.
Up to 100mm of rain could fall in parts of Cornwall, especially over Bodmin Moor.
What can we expect?
There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
There is a small chance of fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life
Where flooding occurs, there is a slight chance of delays or cancellations to train and bus services
Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
There is a small chance that some communities become cut off by flooded roads
"The current band of rain is expected to become slow moving over western England through today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday).
"Whilst many places will see a spell of heavy rain, high ground of south-west England around Dartmoor and Bodmin moor which are exposed to the south, will likely see the largest rainfall totals.
"Here, some 70-100 mm of rain is possible, with the most exposed parts of Dartmoor potentially seeing up to 150 mm by the end of Saturday.
"As well as heavy rain, strong to gale force southerly winds will be an additional hazard".
Met Office
You can check the latest weather warnings for Cornwall and the south-west here or watch the full forecast below...