Fresh Weather Warnings Issued as Ice and Rain Threaten Storm-Hit Regions
The Met Office has issued a new series of weather warnings for ice and heavy rain across multiple regions of the United Kingdom, with communities still recovering from the impacts of Storm Chandra now facing further potential disruption. The warnings come as temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing overnight, creating hazardous conditions across already saturated ground.
Ice Warnings Across Southwest, Wales and Northern Ireland
A yellow warning for ice has been issued for the entire southwest region of England, along with most of Wales and Northern Ireland. This warning, which remains in force until 9am on Monday morning, highlights the significant risk of slippery surfaces and patches of ice forming on roads and pavements as temperatures plummet overnight.
Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk emphasised the particular danger in Devon and Cornwall, where sodden ground and wet surfaces could rapidly turn icy as temperatures drop below zero. "Temperatures will fall and could drop below freezing overnight in the region as well as western parts of Wales and Northern Ireland," she stated, warning of frost and icy conditions developing by Monday morning.
Further Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Following the ice warning, a separate yellow warning for heavy rain has been issued for the southwest region from midday on Monday. The Met Office forecasts substantial rainfall accumulations, with 30-50mm expected over Dartmoor and 10-20mm widely across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset.
The rainfall warning, which remains active until 9am on Tuesday, carries serious implications for communities still dealing with the aftermath of Storm Chandra. According to the Met Office alert, there is "a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded and fast flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life."
Storm Chandra's Lingering Impact
These new warnings come exactly one week after Storm Chandra brought widespread disruption to the same regions, forcing school closures and causing significant flooding. Somerset Council reported that approximately 50 properties had been affected by flooding across Ilminster, West Coker, Taunton, Mudford and West Camel following the previous deluge.
Ms Chalk warned that the already saturated ground from January's wet weather creates particularly vulnerable conditions for further flooding. "There is already a yellow rain warning in force, so we could see further disruption and more flooding," she cautioned, urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant.
Extended Weather Forecast and Travel Advice
The Met Office's five-day forecast indicates continued unsettled conditions across the UK:
- Sunday night: Cloud and rain moving eastwards, with clear spells in the west leading to frost and fog patches
- Monday: Cloudy start with outbreaks of light rain and showers, with more persistent rain moving into the southwest later
- Tuesday to Thursday: Remaining unsettled with showers or longer spells of heavy rain affecting most areas, coupled with brisk winds at times
Northern regions can expect further snow on hills, with below average temperatures persisting. The forecaster has advised those in warning areas to exercise particular caution, monitor local forecasts regularly, and prepare for potential travel disruption as conditions develop throughout the week.
