Strong gusts, up to 60 mph, wreaked havoc throughout Devon and Cornwall, affecting transport and activities, including yellow weather warnings for rain and wind. Trains were stranded, events called off, and attractions ordered to close.
How Were Rail Services Affected by the Severe Weather?
Extreme weather has wre havoc on rail services across Devon and Cornwall. Two passenger-carrying trains were reportedly stopped between Exeter and Plymouth, stated Great Western Railway (GWR). One train stood at Dawlish and another in Teignmouth. The reason for the disturbance is still under investigation.
“It’s not yet clear why,” a GWR spokeswoman said, “and Hitachi will have to look at the source of any problems with those trains. Getting travelers transferred to the closest station and forward to finish their trip comes first.
Consequently, the lines separating Exeter St David’s from Penzance have closed. GWR announced at 20:30 that the 13:00 Cardiff to Penzance train was also being routed to Newton Abbot, enabling passengers to disembark, while the 12:36 Paddington to Paignton service was safely relocated back to Newton Abbot.
GWR told travelers that today’s tickets would be valid for Monday and recommended against travel. Furthermore, the bad weather hampered the lines separating Par from Newquay and between Truro and Falmouth Docks.
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Which Events and Attractions Were Cancelled Due to the Weather?
Apart from affecting travel, the stormy conditions resulted in the cancelation of numerous significant events and the closure of well-known sites. Safety issues led to the cancellation of the Tor much-await dated half marathon and 10km miles mile) events. Torpoint Street Market, Woolacombe Beach Clean, and ParkLive in Falmouth are other events influenced.
Perched on Cornish cliffs, the well-known Minack Theatre in Porthcurno announced its closing on social media, saying, “Due to heavy winds, we’ve had to close. Ticket holders should get in touch with us for more information.
The storm also affected the North Devon Yacht Club; it canceled Sunday’s race and cautioned members, “Sunday’s race is canceled since there is an intense weather warning with gusts reaching 50 mph. Tie your boats down, then grab onto your hats!
Among the other attractions that had to close because of the hazardous conditions was the Wildwood Animal Park in Ottery St Mary.
What Was the Impact of the Storm on the Coastline?
Dramatic coastline photos illustrating the full ferocity of the storm showed waves smashing South Pier and lashing the lighthouse at Newlyn Harbour in Cornwall.
“It’s been a grotty day of weather here in Penzance and Newlyn today,” said a resident. “Although this wasn’t a small storm, the strong winds and rough seas meant people living along the prom would most likely be picking seaweed out of their gardens for days; often, these unnamed storms blowing in from the south hit us the hardest.”
Along with locations between Dawlish Warren and Seaton and from Start Point to Dawlish Warren, flood alerts were also issued on Sunday for other places, including the River Axe, Rivers Otter, and Sid. Given that the excessive rain had already been aggravating poor circumstances, residents in these locations were advised to exercise caution.
What Did the Met Office Say About the Weather Warnings?
The Met Office has closely observed the matter and provided yellow weather alerts covering wind and rain. In certain places, wind gusts were expected to reach rates of up to 60 mph, producing extensive disturbances. The rain warning covers Monday morning until 09:00; the wind warning will continue until 11:59 p.m. BST on Sunday.
“The rain is expected to ease during the second half of Sunday night, but the wind warning will remain in place until late into the night,” the official Met Office statement added.
Looking forward, Monday has further yellow rain warnings posted. From 08:00 BST on Monday to 03:00 on Tuesday, one covers eastern England. Monday will bring another warning for North Wales and north-west England from 00:30 to 20:00.
What Other Disruptions Were Caused by the Storm?
For local rail services in other parts of Devon and Cornwall, the weather has also presented problems. Following a train striking a tree knocked down by the severe winds, the rail line between Crediton and Okehampton halted Sunday morning for over an hour. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded; still, services were temporarily affected while staff attempted to clear the rubble.
Thinking back on the difficult circumstances, a local said, “It’s a reminder for us all that winter is just around the corner.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to be alert, avoid pointless trips, and prepare for any more disturbances while the storm passes over the area. Though its effects will probably be felt for days, the extreme weather may diminish.
