The Devon village of Torcross is facing an "existential" threat from rising sea levels and extreme weather. Following violent storms in early 2026 that damaged seafront properties and washed away parts of the A379 coastal road, a £19.8m sea defence scheme has been approved. This project involves positioning 55,000 tonnes of rock to protect the community around Start Bay, though experts warn it is a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution. Research from the University of Plymouth indicates beach levels have dropped by 2m in some areas, reducing the effectiveness of existing defences. As the Exeter Climate Forum highlighted the urgent need for adaptation, officials noted that long-term survival may require difficult social changes, such as relocating infrastructure and residents. Meanwhile, the UK government faces pressure to accelerate climate adaptation and emission reductions to protect vulnerable coastal communities.