A number of pollution alerts and warnings have been issued for numerous beaches and popular swimming locations across Devon following recent heavy rainfall.
Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), a charity and environmental campaign group, has advised that eight water spots in Devon should be avoided due to pollution risks. Sewage contamination has been confirmed at three locations, while five others are considered at risk. The SAS interactive map shows areas where sewage has been released into the sea, a common occurrence after heavy rain as storm overflows are triggered to prevent drains from flooding.
Following last week's heavy rainfall, the Met Office has issued another yellow rain warning for Devon, effective from 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, until 10 a.m. on Friday.
SAS explains that a sewage pollution alert means "storm sewage has been discharged from a sewer overflow in this location within the past 48 hours," while a "pollution risk forecast" indicates a potential for sewage contamination in the area.
The following locations in Devon currently have sewage pollution alerts in place:
- Exmouth
- Teignmouth Holcombe
- Dawlish Town
- Budleigh Salterton
- Goodrington
- Meadfoot
Hospiscare needs your help with a unique ‘double your money’ fundraising challenge
County Council invites residents to help shape 2026/27 budget
‘Pop-up’ vaccination clinics being held in several communities this week
Rural areas to be hit hardest by Lloyds’ removal of cheque deposit facilities at Post Offices
