A30 in Devon Reopens After Flooding and Multiple Crashes

A main route in Devon has reopened following flooding and two separate collisions, which caused significant delays for drivers.

Devon & Cornwall Police were called to incidents on the westbound A30 near Fenny Bridges, Ottery St Mary, around 08:00 BST on Wednesday. The crashes involved one car in the first incident and three vehicles in the second. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

National Highways confirmed that the westbound carriageway was closed between Honiton and Fairmile due to the flooding and crashes. BBC reporter Sue Paz described some areas as “impassable,” with tailbacks stretching for several miles.

The road was fully reopened by 10:13 BST after recovery and the rainwater had subsided, although drivers faced delays of around 20 minutes. Later, at approximately 11:05, the westbound carriageway between Daisymount and Fenny Bridges was closed again due to standing water, which remained until the floodwaters cleared around 11:35.

Melvin Quartley, National Highways control centre team manager, said the heavy, short bursts of rain overwhelmed local drainage, requiring at least five crews to clear the water and ensure safety. He urged motorists to plan journeys carefully, check vehicle conditions, and avoid driving through floodwater.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also attended a four-vehicle crash at the scene, assisting police with safety measures. “All occupants were free from vehicles on arrival, with some requiring treatment from ambulance staff,” a spokesperson said.

Sue Paz, reporting from the scene, said flooding had spread to the opposite carriageway, causing around six miles of tailbacks, and added that the earlier collisions contributed to significant congestion, with some drivers stuck for up to two hours.