Major Emergency Response After Cliff Collapse Traps People and Dogs in Newquay
A dramatic cliff collapse in Cornwall has triggered a large-scale emergency response with coastguard teams, police, fire crews and lifeboat services all rushing to the scene to rescue trapped individuals and their pets.
Buildings Left Teetering on Edge After Landslide
The incident occurred on King Edward Crescent in Newquay where a substantial section of cliff face gave way, leaving multiple buildings perilously positioned at the edge of the newly created abyss. Five people and two dogs found themselves trapped following the sudden landslide that completely buried the coastal footpath beneath tonnes of soil and rubble.
Dramatic photographs from the scene show emergency workers navigating the unstable cliffside while leading dogs to safety, with other images revealing the sheer scale of destruction that has rendered the popular walking route completely impassable.
Multi-Agency Emergency Operation
The Newquay Coastguard Search and Rescue Team confirmed they were alerted to the incident at approximately 3:05pm and immediately coordinated a comprehensive response involving multiple emergency services. Joining them were the St Agnes Coastguard Search and Rescue Team, Newquay RNLI Lifeboats, Devon and Cornwall Police, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, and Cormac contractors.
In an official statement, rescue coordinators emphasised: "This section of coastpath is now impassable and the public are requested to avoid the area for the time being. If you spot a hazard along the coast, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."
Storm Damage and Ongoing Weather Warnings
The cliff collapse follows days of persistent heavy rainfall that has battered the South West region, with two named storms bringing yellow weather warnings to the area. The Environment Agency has issued multiple flood warnings across Devon and Cornwall, noting that already saturated ground conditions mean river levels are expected to remain elevated for some time.
Further yellow warnings for rain come into effect across the South West from Monday noon until Tuesday morning, with the Met Office cautioning that additional rainfall may lead to further flooding and disruption. This geological incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of coastal areas to extreme weather events and the critical importance of emergency preparedness.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they assess the structural stability of affected buildings and work to secure the area against potential further collapses.
