'Immediate action' flood warnings issued as torrential rain hits Devon & Cornwall
The Met Office has also issued a weather warning for downpours until 5pm on Saturday
Last updated 20th Feb 2021
Several flood warnings have been issued as torrential rain hits parts of Devon and Cornwall.
The latest is along the lower River Teign from Chudleigh to Kingsteignton.
Two others are in force for the River Lyd, at Lifton, and the River Torridge from Dalton to Bideford.
In Cornwall a warning covers the River Tamar from Greystone Bridge to Cotehele.
The warnings mean flooding is expected and immediate action should be taken to protect homes and businesses.
"Flooding is expected from early morning Saturday 20th February. Heavy rain has been falling in the River Teign catchment, which is causing the River Teign to rise. Flooding is expected from 8am Saturday morning.
"Properties and low lying areas around Ventiford Cottages and properties around Ventiford Bridge, School Cottages at Teigngrace, businesses at Teignbridge Level Crossing, Sandford Orleigh Farm and the Exeter Road will start to flood first.
"River levels will remain high throughout Saturday. Flood waters may be deep and fast flowing in these areas. Residents are strongly urged to take action now.
"Remain safe and be aware of your local surroundings. We will be closely monitoring the situation throughout the day and this message will be updated by Saturday afternoon, or as the situation changes.
"Our staff are out in the area and will relay information and assist the emergency services and council."
Flood Information Service
You can check the latest flood warnings and alerts for Cornwall and Devon here.
The Met Office weather warning for rain remains in force until 5pm on Saturday, covering areas in parts of Devon and from Bodmin to Launceston and Saltash.
Between 70-100 mm of rain is possible, with the most exposed parts of Dartmoor potentially seeing up to 150 mm.
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...