Incoming storm sparks health fears
Another storm is on its way to the South West today with forecasters predicting heavy rain and wind to hit the region over the weekend.
A further area of heavy rain and strong gale force wind will spread eastwards across the UK bringing around 40 mm on some high ground in the southwest of England.
Winds will increase on Saturday, with gusts widely to 50 to 60 mph, and perhaps to around 70 mph in exposed parts of the west and north.
Additionally large waves could lead to over-topping along some coastlines.
The Met Office's Chief Forecaster said: "A deep Atlantic low will move north close to western parts of the UK on Saturday. Associated very strong winds together with bands of squally showers will affect many parts but particularly western areas.
"The combination of very strong winds, large waves and high tides will lead to hazardous conditions at times in some coastal areas. Winds will ease from the south later on Saturday but remain strong in the north into early Sunday."
Devon County Council has renewed its call for people to take care on the county’s roads and coast paths over the weekend.
Rain is forecast to continue today with some heavy bursts and up to 10mm possible in localised areas, which could cause localised flooding on the local road network.
The NHS in Devon is has issued a health warning in the face of the further bad weather warning that the most vulnerable could be at risk.
Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (NEW Devon CCG) is asking people to take care on the roads, keep warm and look in on elderly neighbours and relatives to make sure they are coping well.
Dr Rob Turner, a GP in Topsham and board member of the Eastern Locality of NEW Devon CCG, said: “With the expected wet and cold weather expected over the next few days we would ask anyone, especially the frail and the elderly, to be extra careful when going outside.
“Every year hospital emergency departments such as at the RD&E Hospital see an increase in the number of people who have slipped, tripped or fallen because of the bad weather.
“Spending a day or more in hospital when you could be with your family is nobody’s idea of fun so take extra care.”
Dr Turner is asking people to make sure their home is warm enough, they have plenty of warm food, as well as a well stocked medicine cabinet.
He added: “We would remind people that there are alternatives to emergency departments, especially if it’s not an emergency.
Coughs and colds may be easily treated at home. Pharmacies and GP surgeries will give you the advice you need, or you can call the new NHS 111 number.”
The cold weather advice ties in with a newly launched eight-week awareness campaign from NHS England to help people stay well longer.
