New yellow warning for heavy rain as Newquay rail line to remain closed

The railway line between Newquay and Par is set to remain closed until Monday 2 February at the earliest, following flooding caused by heavy rain.

The Newquay to Par branch line was shut last Saturday after flooding near Roche. Train operator Great Western Railway said it is working with Network Rail to restore services.

In a statement, GWR said:
"We are working with Network Rail to be able to return to running our normal timetable as soon as possible, however this will now not be until Monday 2nd February at the earliest. Road transport will operate in lieu of the train service all day. However, coaches will start and finish at St. Austell rather than Par, so please alight at St. Austell if looking to connect."

A new yellow weather alert issued by the Met Office is in place from 9am on Friday until 6am on Saturday.

Kernow Weather Team says outbreaks of rain are expected to arrive across Cornwall early on Friday morning, becoming heavy at times before slowly moving north-eastwards during the afternoon. It says that once the main band of rain clears, conditions will turn showery through Friday evening and overnight into Saturday morning.

Rainfall forecasts suggest between 10 and 20 millimetres of rain for many areas, with up to 30 millimetres possible over higher ground. Forecasters warn the rain will fall onto already saturated ground, with rivers, streams, ditches, fields and gardens already full.

There is a risk of travel disruption, particularly during the Friday school run and commuter periods, with drains and culverts potentially struggling to cope. Strong winds are also expected in some areas, meaning heavier showers could lead to problems developing quickly.

More rain on already sodden ground means flooding is considered a genuine possibility, especially later on Friday and overnight.

People are being urged not to drive through floodwater. It follows flooding earlier this week on several routes around Newquay, including the A3058 between Dairyland and Gummow' Shop.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said:
"Just 30cm of moving water is enough to move a vehicle, and even shallow, still water can hide hazards such as debris, missing manhole covers, or road damage. Floodwater can also rise unexpectedly and with little warning."

Follow Kernow Weather Team for the latest updates.