Storm Chandra is set to drench the United Kingdom once again today, as the Met Office issues a series of severe weather warnings for rain, wind, and even snow. This latest storm follows closely on the heels of previous tempests, exacerbating conditions in regions already vulnerable from recent events.
Widespread Flood Alerts and Amber Warnings
More than 100 areas are currently on flood alert this morning, with the majority concentrated in south-west England. This region is still reeling from the impact of Storm Ingrid, which washed away part of a historic pier just last weekend. An amber warning for rain is in effect for south Devon, much of Dorset, southern Somerset, and south-east Cornwall until 9am on Tuesday. Forecasters predict that 30-50mm of rain could fall widely across these areas, with up to 60-80mm expected over the higher ground of south Dartmoor.
Devon and Cornwall Police have reported significant surface water and flooding across parts of their force area, with many roads becoming impassable. A spokesman urged residents to avoid travel in Exeter, East Devon, and Mid Devon unless absolutely necessary, citing an increase in reports of people encountering floodwaters.
Highways and Safety Concerns
Dan Thomas, Devon County Council cabinet member for highways, has issued a stark warning to motorists. He emphasised that the roads are struggling to cope with the deluge, leading to widespread flooding. Some roads may appear safe with water crowning in the middle, but others pose hidden risks, he advised, urging drivers not to take chances.
Extensive Yellow Warnings and Wind Impacts
Less severe yellow warnings cover a broader area of southern England, as well as parts of northern England and Scotland. The Met Office has highlighted that easterly winds of 60-70mph will affect eastern Northern Ireland, with gusts potentially reaching 75mph in coastal locations. Such wind strengths are unusual for this direction and are likely to cause significant disruption.
An amber warning for wind is in place on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland from 5am to 9pm on Tuesday, accompanied by a yellow rain and wind warning for the entire region throughout the day.
Flood Alert Details Across the UK
Early on Tuesday morning, there were 69 flood warnings active across England, predominantly in the south-west, with four in Yorkshire. Scotland has issued warnings for Aberbothrie and the River Isla at Coupar Angus, while Wales has 17 flood alerts in effect. Met Office chief forecaster Paul Gundersen noted that strong winds will initially impact the Isles of Scilly, western Cornwall, and south-west Wales, areas still vulnerable after Storm Goretti, with gusts of 70 to 80mph possible.
He added that heavy rain poses an additional hazard as it falls on already saturated ground in Dorset and southern parts of Devon, Somerset, and Cornwall.
Travel Disruption and Railway Closures
The storm has caused significant travel chaos, with National Rail warning that poor weather may affect South Western Railway services until the end of the day. Several railway lines are closed due to flooding, including:
- Between Par and Newquay in Cornwall.
- Between Castle Cary and Taunton in Somerset.
- Between Salisbury in Wiltshire and both Southampton Central and Romsey in Hampshire.
- Between Eastleigh and Fareham in Hampshire.
- Between Exeter St Davids and both Okehampton and Barnstaple in Devon.
In Wales, Transport for Wales reported a tree blocking the railway at Llanbister Road station near Llangunllo in Powys, resulting in no services between Swansea and Shrewsbury.
Duration of Storm Chandra
When Storm Chandra was first named, the Met Office warned that it would bring a further spell of wet and windy conditions from late Monday into Tuesday. Fortunately, there are currently no weather warnings in place from tomorrow through the rest of the week, offering some respite after the storm passes.
As the UK braces for more severe weather, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this turbulent period.
