Storm Chandra Brings Severe Weather and Widespread Disruption to the UK
Storm Chandra has unleashed a wave of severe weather across the United Kingdom, prompting the Met Office to issue multiple weather alerts, including a critical 'danger to life' flood warning. The storm is causing significant travel chaos, school closures, and flight cancellations as strong winds, heavy rain, and snow batter various regions.
'Danger to Life' Flood Warning and River Concerns
A severe flood warning, indicating a potential danger to life, has been issued for the River Otter at Ottery St Mary in Devon. This is accompanied by over 100 flood warnings and nearly 200 flood alerts scattered across England and near the Welsh border. The Environment Agency has urged the public to avoid driving through flood water, emphasising that just 30cm of flowing water can float a car. Chris Wilding, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, warned of significant surface water flooding impacts in the south-west of England, with river flooding risks expected to escalate.
Travel Chaos and Infrastructure Closures
The storm has led to widespread travel disruption. The M48 Severn Bridge between England and Wales has been shut to traffic, while the Humber Bridge is closed to high-sided vehicles due to strong winds. Multiple road closures have been reported, including the A30 in Devon, the A303 between Devon and Somerset, and the A35 in Dorset. In Cumbria, the A66 is closed because of snow, with drivers advised to seek alternate routes across the Pennines.
School Closures and Public Safety Alerts
In Northern Ireland, nearly 250 schools are closed due to severe weather conditions. An amber wind warning is in effect for the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, with a yellow rain and wind warning covering the entire region. Devon and Cornwall Police have reported significant surface water and flooding, causing widespread road disruption in areas like Exeter, East Devon, and Mid Devon. Authorities are urging residents in these regions to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Flight and Ferry Cancellations
The storm has severely impacted air and sea travel. Belfast City Airport has cancelled more than two dozen flights, including routes to London Heathrow, Edinburgh, and Manchester. Across the Irish Sea, numerous ferry services have been suspended. Overnight ferries between Liverpool and Belfast on Stena Line are cancelled, with most sailings in the Irish Sea, from Cairnryan to Larne and Fishguard to Rosslare, halted until late afternoon. In Scotland, Caledonian MacBrayne has cancelled multiple sailings, including routes from Oban to Mull and Ullapool to Stornoway.
Weather Warnings and Forecast
The Met Office has issued amber warnings for wind on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland and for rain in south-west England. Forecasters warn that strong winds could lead to flying debris, posing a risk of injuries and a danger to life. The storm follows Storm Ingrid, which recently caused damage in the south-west, including washing away part of a historic pier. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions remain hazardous.
