With Met Office forecasts of more strong winds and heavy rain affecting Cornwall over the next few days, Cornwall Council is warning residents to be prepared and take precautions where necessary.

The latest information from the MET Office and the Environment Agency is for strong winds of up to 70 mph to affect Cornwall this afternoon (Tuesday) and overnight into Wednesday morning. These winds are likely to particularly affect the Southern coastline of Cornwall, with areas such as Looe, Mevagissey, Par, Lostwithiel, Lerryn, Polperro, Fowey, Falmouth, Flushing, Kingsand and Cawsand, Millbrook, Seaton, Newlyn, and Penzance most at risk of flooding during tonight and tomorrow morning’s high tides.

There will then be a short respite in the severe weather before a period of heavy and persistent rain moves into Cornwall during Thursday. This is likely to become particularly heavy during the afternoon, with the risk of thunderstorms. Friday will then start off dry but more heavy rain and strong winds will move in during Friday evening, with the possibility of severe gales and blustery showers during Saturday.

With the ground already saturated with the recent rainfall, high Spring tides and some flood defences already damaged by the storms of the last few weeks, agencies in Cornwall are advising people living in areas at risk of flooding to take precautions.

“We know that many areas of Cornwall are still clearing up after the severe weather we have experienced over the past few days but we need to ensure that local residents are getting ready for this next period of bad weather “ said Geoff Brown, the council’s cabinet member for homes and communities.

“We are asking people to follow the advice on dealing with the potential severe weather, and would remind motorists not to drive through flood water. We would also ask people to take care when walking along the coast path, some areas of which have been closed as result of storm damage, and by cliff edges during the strong winds.”

While there are currently no plans to open Silver Control at the emergency management centre at New County Hall in Truro this evening, all the agencies are monitoring the situation closely and are on standby to open Silver Control if required.

Anyone whose property is prone to flooding should ensure they have a supply of sandbags ready to protect their home or business should they need to. Local communities are also encouraged to check with vulnerable neighbours in case they need help with obtaining flood protection materials. Residents are also advised to check that their drains are clear of leaves and blockages.

Sandbags can be obtained from builders merchants, DIY and hardware stores. Anyone who is unsure if their property is at risk can check on the environment agency website www.environment-agency.gov.uk or call the floodline on 0845 988 1188.

For further advice on preparing for flooding visit the environment agency website www.environment-agency.gov.uk or the Cornwall Council website at www.cornwall.gov.uk/flooding