Devon County Council's lead member for flooding has issued a warning to people to be cautious in the aftermath of weeks of wet weather and flooding.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, who is also county cabinet member for Highways and Transportation, is urging people, in particular walkers, cyclists and horse riders to take extra care when using paths close to rivers and cliffs.
He said due to persistent rain the ground is saturated and river levels are high so there is an increased risk of surface water and river flooding as well as the potential for fallen trees and landslips.
"This is a popular time of year for getting outside for some fresh air," he added. "But I would advise people to be extra careful when using the footpaths around Devon, especially those close to rivers and cliffs.
"The recent weather means the paths will be sodden which increases the risk of landslips and falling trees. And many river levels are much higher than usual because of the rain."
Cllr Hughes said people should also make sure they are up-to-date with the latest flood and weather warning information which can be found on the Environment Agency's website, and via the Met Office.
"We are working with colleagues at the Met Office and the Environment Agency to monitor the situation over the coming days, and are ready to respond to emergencies," he said.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, who is also county cabinet member for Highways and Transportation, is urging people, in particular walkers, cyclists and horse riders to take extra care when using paths close to rivers and cliffs.
He said due to persistent rain the ground is saturated and river levels are high so there is an increased risk of surface water and river flooding as well as the potential for fallen trees and landslips.
"This is a popular time of year for getting outside for some fresh air," he added. "But I would advise people to be extra careful when using the footpaths around Devon, especially those close to rivers and cliffs.
"The recent weather means the paths will be sodden which increases the risk of landslips and falling trees. And many river levels are much higher than usual because of the rain."
Cllr Hughes said people should also make sure they are up-to-date with the latest flood and weather warning information which can be found on the Environment Agency's website, and via the Met Office.
"We are working with colleagues at the Met Office and the Environment Agency to monitor the situation over the coming days, and are ready to respond to emergencies," he said.
