The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rainfall expected to impact Devon, including Exeter and Plymouth, from 6pm on Friday, April 18 until 9am on Saturday, April 19.

The Exeter-based forecasters warn of a prolonged period of heavy rain that could cause significant travel disruptions and hazardous driving conditions. Some properties might experience flooding and temporary loss of power or essential services.

Motorists are advised to expect delays due to spray and flooding on the roads, which will extend journey times. The heaviest rain will arrive early on Good Friday before intensifying and continuing through the night.

Rainfall amounts across the county are expected to reach 40mm, with some areas possibly seeing up to 75mm. The Met Office also cautioned about strong gusts of wind accompanying the rain.

South West Weather Forecast:

• Thursday, April 17: A cold start with isolated showers becoming more widespread in the afternoon. Sunshine and scattered showers, some heavy. Lighter winds compared to Wednesday. Max temperature: 15°C.
• Tonight: Showers will fade, leaving a mostly dry evening. Cloud cover will increase overnight, bringing heavy rain from the west. Winds will pick up by dawn. Min temperature: 5°C.
• Friday, April 18: Unsettled conditions with spells of heavy rain throughout the day. Windy, especially near the coast. Cooler under cloud and rain. Max temperature: 13°C.
• Outlook for Saturday to Monday: The Easter weekend will be changeable with periods of cloud, rain, or showers. Easter Sunday will likely be drier with some sunny spells. Temperatures near seasonal average, with breezy conditions.