Storm Darragh Causes Extensive Power Outages and Fallen Trees

Strong winds from Storm Darragh have resulted in power loss for over 25,000 residences throughout Cornwall and Devon, in addition to felling hundreds of trees. Emergency responders in the South West have addressed numerous fallen trees obstructing roadways, alongside instances of landslides and scattered debris. The Met Office had issued a red wind warning for a section of north Devon, with an amber warning remaining active until 21:00 GMT on Saturday, and a yellow warning extending until 06:00 on Sunday. Wind speeds intensified on Saturday afternoon, registering gusts of 67mph (107km/h) in the Isles of Scilly, 68mph (109km/h) in Bodmin, and 88mph (142km/h) on Exmoor. Approximately 20,000 properties in Devon remained without electricity around 19:45 GMT, while an additional 6,000 properties in Cornwall were also impacted. Matt Turner, representing National Grid, stated that the strong winds had caused high voltage overhead lines to fall, making repairs challenging. He commented: “We are working at pace and through the night to get the lights on as swiftly and safely as possible.” Mr Turner recommended that customers keep a battery pack available to maintain mobile phone charge during any power interruption. Sgt Robert Brown of South Molton Police Station reported that law enforcement personnel were addressing “numerous trees down across our roads, landslides and general debris.” Due to the intense winds, the Tamar Bridge, linking Devon and Cornwall, was inaccessible to high-sided vehicles. Stuart Hughes, from Devon County Council, described a demanding morning and night, noting that they had encountered “very challenging conditions.” He added, “It’s very dangerous out there.” Great Western Railway suspended train services between Plymouth and Penzance on Saturday morning due to track closures. Nick Million, representing Network Rail, stated: “We have multiple trees down and multiple obstacles that have blown on the lines.” Newquay Airport ceased operations due to the prevailing conditions, with flights anticipated to recommence on Sunday. Nevertheless, the majority of flights at Exeter Airport departed as scheduled, with the exception of those traveling to and from the Channel Islands. Given waves reaching 21ft (6.5m), Paddy Corcoran from Falmouth Coastguard cautioned individuals against engaging in risky behavior along the coastline. He remarked, “We often see people running in and out of the surf in conditions like these.” He further advised: “But in these really heavy conditions we are on the limit for resources, getting a lifeguard out will take time, so please do not take any unnecessary risks.” A flood warning was issued for the upper sections of the River Tamar, alongside similar warnings for rivers in adjacent Somerset. Gale-force winds agitated the sea at Crackington Haven and Westward Ho!, generating sea foam that spread across adjacent roads. Exmouth RNLI deployed to verify the absence of individuals on a drifting motor boat, amidst sustained wind speeds exceeding 60mph (58 knots). After the crew confirmed the vessel was unoccupied, they determined it posed a risk to other maritime traffic and proceeded to tow it back to the shore. A spokesperson characterized it as a “good result in difficult conditions” and reiterated the importance for all boat owners to secure their vessels during stormy weather. In Truro, Cornwall, a large Christmas bauble decoration, typically illuminating a roundabout, came dislodged. The red wire-frame bauble was carried from the roundabout on Morlaix Avenue, propelled across the thoroughfare, and settled on an adjacent footpath. It has since been fastened to a lamppost using rope, awaiting the storm’s conclusion. High winds have also impacted Christmas events and church services throughout the South West. For safety considerations, both Plymouth Christmas Market and Truro ceased operations on Saturday. The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market was also shut, and morning services at the cathedral were called off. An annual Christmas gathering, where hundreds of bikers journey between Plymouth and St Austell to collect funds for a children’s hospice, was similarly cancelled. Tourist destinations throughout Devon and Cornwall, such as Trelissick and the Eden Project in Cornwall, and RHS Rosemoor in Devon, were closed. Several sporting events were also rescheduled, including Plymouth Argyle’s fixture against Oxford and Exeter Chiefs Women’s game versus Bristol Bears. For updates, follow BBC Cornwall and BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.