A major incident has been declared across parts of south west England following catastrophic flooding triggered by Storm Chandra. Somerset Council issued the critical warning on Tuesday evening after the county endured near-record rainfall levels, resulting in what authorities described as 'life-threatening' flood conditions.
Widespread Flood Warnings and Alerts
By Wednesday morning, the Environment Agency had issued 99 flood warnings, indicating flooding is expected, alongside 260 flood alerts across England. In Wales, three warnings and 16 alerts were active, while Scotland faced eight warnings and eight alerts. Northern Ireland recorded a staggering 103mm of rain at Katesbridge on Tuesday, according to Met Office data.
Record River Levels and Property Damage
The River Otter at Ottery St Mary in Devon reached its highest ever recorded level, surpassing a December 2000 record, prompting a severe flood warning. Approximately 20 properties have already flooded across Devon and Cornwall, with that number anticipated to rise. Firefighters in Devon alone rescued people from 25 vehicles stranded in floodwater, although no casualties were reported.
Transport Network in Disarray
The storm has caused severe travel disruption nationwide. Multiple road closures are in effect, including the A30 in Devon near Ottery St Mary and the A303 between Devon and Somerset. Rail services have been heavily impacted, with lines closed between Par and Newquay in Cornwall, Castle Cary and Taunton in Somerset, and several routes in Hampshire and Devon. The M48 Severn Bridge was closed, and the Humber Bridge restricted for high-sided vehicles.
New Ice Warning Adds to Hazard
As the flood crisis continues, a new yellow weather warning for ice has been issued across much of England, Scotland, and Wales, effective from midnight until 10am on Wednesday. The Met Office warned that temperatures could drop to around -2°C in the Highlands, creating hazardous icy patches on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths. Commuters have been urged to check for delays, allow extra journey time, and ensure vehicles are prepared.
Further Rain and Snow Forecast
A yellow weather warning for rain remains in place for south-west England on Thursday, with the Met Office cautioning that additional rainfall could exacerbate flooding and cause further transport disruption. Meanwhile, yellow warnings for rain and snow are active for the Pennines and south-west Scotland, where 10-20cm of snow could accumulate on higher ground.
School Closures and Flight Cancellations
The severe weather has forced over 280 school closures across Northern Ireland and more than 40 in Devon. Air travel has also been disrupted, with at least 30 flights cancelled at Belfast City Airport and Loganair axing at least 12 services. Ferry operators Stena Line and Caledonian MacBrayne reported numerous sailing cancellations due to the adverse conditions.
Emergency Response and Public Advice
Emergency services and council staff have been praised for their efforts in risky conditions. Authorities are strongly advising the public against travelling through floodwater, emphasising that it is often deeper and faster-moving than it appears. Richard Foord, Liberal Democrat MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, highlighted the 'truly horrendous' situation and urged residents to heed official updates.
The UK Health Security Agency has activated cold health alerts for northern England, warning of a 'greater risk to life for vulnerable people' until Friday. With Storm Chandra being the latest named storm from the western Europe naming group, the Met Office continues to urge people to stay updated with forecasts and warnings as the complex weather system persists.
