Flood alerts declared in Devon as ‘horrendous’ rain.

A number of flood alerts have been issued across Devon, with heavy rain expected around the county overnight.

Heavy rain is hitting Devon this evening, with six areas at risk of flooding, according to the GOV.UK website.

Flood warnings were issued shortly after 4.30pm this afternoon, with updates promised by tomorrow morning (Tuesday) or earlier if the situation changes.

One man told DevonLive that “absolutely horrendous” rain had already arrived in Ivybridge.

In North Devon, there are flood warnings along the River Exe from Exebridge to Tiverton and the rivers Haddeo, Batherm and Lowman; as well as around the rivers Clyst and Culm and their tributaries, comprising Cullompton, Hemyock, Stoke Canon, Broadclyst and Clyst St Mary.

Meanwhile, in East Devon, areas around the River Ax may flood, including the Coly, Yarty, Umborne Brook and coastal streams from Branscombe to Axmouth. There is also a flood warning for locations around the River Lim on the Devon-Dorset border.

Further south, the area of ​​the River Teign on the outskirts of Dartmoor may be affected, including the rivers Bovey and Lemon, and the coastal streams from Babbacombe to Kenton.

The rivers Avon, Harbourne and Erme in south Devon, as well as coastal streams from Bigbury to Dartmouth are also at risk, affecting areas such as Kingsbridge, South Brent and Ivybridge.

Flood alerts on Gov.uk warn that “heavy rain” is expected in each of these areas this evening, warning that: “This will cause river levels to rise with possible flooding in low-lying areas and roads near rivers. Be careful near rivers. areas of concern and monitor local weather conditions. We are constantly monitoring the river level.”

The Met Office has some top tips on how to stay safe during floods – including parking your car outside the flood zone, preparing a flood kit to help you deal with flooding in your home and business, storing valuables upstairs and turning off gas, water and electricity. For more advice visit the Met Office website.