A Stormy Start to 2026 and What it Means for Your Fence

A Stormy Start to the Year in Devon

The start of 2026 has been record breaking across parts of the UK, with Devon experiencing an intense run of unsettled weather. The so called triple threat of Storms Goretti, Ingrid and Chandra has already battered the South West, bringing heavy rainfall, saturated ground and repeated spells of strong winds.

In some areas, nearly 40 consecutive days of rain have left soil heavily waterlogged. When the ground becomes this saturated, fence posts lose stability. What once felt solid and secure can quickly begin to shift beneath the surface.

Then the wind follows.

Each successive system, from Goretti through to Ingrid and Chandra, has added further strain to boundary fencing. Even if your fence has not completely collapsed, weeks of rain combined with strong gusts may have weakened its structure without you realising.

Understanding how this unusual start to the year affects your fencing is key to preventing more serious and costly damage later on.

Why Prolonged Rain Can Be as Damaging as High Winds

When soil becomes saturated, it loses its strength and structure. Fence posts rely on firm, compacted ground for stability. In parts of Devon where clay soils are common, prolonged rain causes expansion, followed by contraction as conditions begin to dry.

This constant movement weakens the base of posts and concrete footings.

Even pressure treated timber can suffer if moisture remains trapped around the base for extended periods. Rot often begins below ground level, meaning the damage is hidden until movement becomes visible.

After storms like Goretti, Ingrid and Chandra, many fences may still appear upright, yet the structural integrity underneath has already been compromised.

Signs Your Fence May Have Hidden Storm Damage

Not all storm damaged fencing falls over immediately. Many issues develop gradually. Here are early warning signs to look out for across Devon:

1. Leaning or Unstable Posts

If a post shifts when pushed or appears slightly out of alignment, the base may be weakening in waterlogged soil.

2. Panels That Bow or Flex

Wind pressure can cause panels to strain between posts. Even minor bowing can indicate stress.

3. Gaps or Movement at Fixing Points

Repeated gusts can loosen screws, brackets and rails. Small gaps often signal structural movement.

4. Cracking Around Concrete Footings

Visible fractures at ground level may indicate shifting below the surface.

5. One Failed Section

If one post or panel has failed, additional strain is placed on the remaining structure. This can lead to a domino effect during the next spell of strong winds.

Why Waiting Can Make the Problem Worse

In Devon, where further unsettled weather often follows early season systems like Storms Goretti, Ingrid and Chandra, a weakened fence rarely improves on its own.

Each new gust places more pressure on posts that may already be unstable due to saturated ground. What could have been a straightforward repair can quickly turn into full replacement if movement continues.

Delaying action can result in:

• Greater repair costs

• Loss of privacy and security

• Risk to neighbouring properties

• Boundary disagreements

Early inspection following significant storms is often the most practical and cost effective approach.

Is Storm Damage Always Obvious?

Not necessarily.

A fence does not need to be completely flat on the ground to be classed as storm damaged. Subtle shifts, minor leaning or movement under pressure are often early indicators.

Because fencing works as a connected structure, weakness in one area affects the entire run. If underlying issues are not addressed, future storms can cause sudden and unexpected collapse.

Get Expert Advice on Storm Damaged Fencing in Devon

For homeowners across Devon, Fit Forget Fencing provides professional storm damage assessments and repairs. If your fencing has been affected by Storms Goretti, Ingrid or Chandra, or you are concerned about hidden structural weakness, contact Fit Forget Fencing for clear guidance and a practical next steps.