Suspected tornado flips caravans on their side - widespread damage to homes in Quintrell Downs

Thursday, 23 January 2025 11:04

Buildings, fences, and vehicles have been damaged following a suspected tornado in Quintrell Downs this morning.

Radio Newquay listeners were the first to report scenes of walls and fences down, with images showing rubble scattered along East Road. Homes on Vyvyan Drive were also affected, with some roofs damaged and garage roofs ripped clean off.

Kernow Weather Team say it is very possible this was a tornado, citing the "sudden directional wind change at a near 180 degrees."

Resident Tamsin Williams described the dramatic event:
"It went very dark, and I had to put the lights on, which I thought was rather strange for daytime, and then the rain was really, really heavy. I've never seen or heard rain like it. You couldn't actually see anything out the back window because it was so heavy, and then the roar of the wind was just like nothing I've ever experienced. It took our fence off. My dog didn’t start barking. You can’t believe what you just witnessed."

Firefighters from Newquay Community Fire Station attended the scene, conducting welfare checks before being mobilised to another incident in the village.

Speaking to Radio Newquay, property owner Des Evans said:
"All you could see all stashed down the road was broken tiles, housing roof tiles all over the place. It was like a mini tornado."

Caravans Damaged in Holywell Bay
Police confirm that one person has been treated for minor injuries after caravans were damaged by strong winds at Holywell Bay. Officers remain on the scene dealing with the incident.

Emergency Services Experiencing an Increased Volume of Calls
Devon and Cornwall Police issued a statement:
"At this time, this appears to be affecting coastal areas and roads.

Please stay safe, follow Met Office advice on weather warnings, and remain vigilant if driving. Be assured that officers and partners are responding to incidents as they are reported and will continue their efforts."