Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed the recovery of a body from the River Exe, following an extensive search for a kayaker who went missing during the severe weather brought by Storm Ingrid. The man, believed to be in his 40s, disappeared near the Great Western Bridge in Tiverton, Devon, on Saturday, January 24, after getting into difficulty in the turbulent waters.
Intensive Search Operation Launched
Emergency services were alerted at approximately 3.50pm on Saturday after reports emerged of a kayaker in distress on the river. A large-scale search operation was immediately launched, involving police officers, firefighters, and paramedics who combed the area throughout the afternoon and into the following days. Despite these efforts, the kayaker remained missing, though his kayak was later located by police.
Storm Ingrid's Impact on Devon
The disappearance occurred as Storm Ingrid wreaked havoc across Devon, with high winds and massive waves causing significant disruption. Winds reached speeds of up to 74mph at Berry Head in Torbay, generating enormous waves that battered the coastline and led to widespread damage. Large sections of the Teignmouth Grand Pier were washed away in the rough conditions, and a main railway line also suffered damage, highlighting the storm's ferocity.
Ongoing Investigation and Family Notification
Police have informed the family of the missing kayaker about the discovery of the body, but formal identification has yet to be conducted. A substantial police presence has been maintained in the area since the incident, with searches continuing over several days to locate the individual. The recovery marks a sombre conclusion to the search efforts, underscoring the dangers posed by extreme weather events.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution near waterways during adverse weather conditions, as storms like Ingrid can rapidly escalate risks for outdoor activities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of river environments, particularly when combined with severe meteorological disturbances.
