Friday 30 January 2026
Devon continues to deal with the aftermath of Storm Ingrid last weekend and Storm Chandra during the week that together caused widespread flooding, travel disruption, and damaged the county’s highways network.
The week began with our Council Leader calling on Government for extra investment in infrastructure to protect communities from flooding and storms. It followed the significant damage caused by Storm Ingrid last weekend to several coastal areas. Monday morning saw our Leader in Torcross assessing the damage.
 Photo taken last Tuesday: Bridge Road, near Topsham
There was no let up, as Storm Chandra swept in on Tuesday, compounding the problems in Torcross and bringing flooding to communities across Devon, especially those on main rivers. Flooding brought damage to properties and led to many road closures. Many schools had to temporarily close, but have now reopened. However, there are some roads that are still closed because they're impassable.
The combination of storms led to further calls for funding to help communities worst hit. Councillor Brazil said the escalating severity and frequency of storms highlight the urgent need for substantial national investment to protect residents, businesses and transport links.
Emergencies happen every day. Often they're unforeseen but sometimes there's more risk of something happening, for example heavy rain or severe winter weather. At best, it's an inconvenience, but at worst, it could put you and your family at risk of harm. We published a special edition of this Connect Me newsletter this week with advice and guidance about how to prepare and what to do in the event of some emergency situations.
Wednesday brought the publication of a new study that shows that the dramatic population bloom of the common octopus off the Southwest coast of the UK is having significant effects on fisheries and marine ecosystems. The study is funded by Defra, Devon County Council and Plymouth City Council and it draws on data from scientists, fishermen and citizen scientists.
The pedestrian and cycle bridge over the A379 at south west Exeter, called Blisses Bridge, has been brought to life with newly added decorative panels.
On Thursday, the UK Health Security Agency released their latest figures showing that norovirus cases have risen again and are now 18.3% higher than the previous two-week period. As the virus continues to spread, people are reminded of the steps they can take to reduce further transmission.
Devon residents still have chance to help shape the future of the county’s 50 libraries, in our 12-week public consultation.
People across Devon can give their views on proposals to reduce and ‘standardise’ opening hours and options to extend opening hours through additional volunteering by using technology and the potential introduction of community managed libraries.
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