Heavy rain and gale-force winds, which caused the River Fowey to burst its banks, have lead to devastating floods across Cornwall
Cornwall is currently suffering heavy flooding with water up to 5ft-deep in places and many people trapped in their homes or cars.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) says that coastguard teams are assisting Devon and Cornwall Police in the rescue operation and two search and rescue helicopters have already been scrambled to offer assistance.
The flooding has been occuring since early this morning and was exacerbated after the River Fowey burst its banks. The worst affected areas are believed to be St Blazey, St Austell and Lostwithiel.
A statement on the MCA’s website says, “Two search and rescue aircraft from the Royal Naval Air base at Culdrose and RAF Chivenor were launched earlier to survey the scene at St Blazey where two feet of water was reported on the local highway and people were reportedly trapped in their cars.
“The aircraft was also diverted to Portloe where a car was being washed into the sea. Fortunately no one was inside.”
Flood water is rising in Mevagissey, and Par and St Austell are also areas of concern.
