Storm Chandra has unleashed widespread chaos across the United Kingdom, prompting Somerset Council to declare a 'major incident' in response to severe flooding. The council reported 'extensive flooding overnight' on the Somerset Levels and Moors, with risks remaining high as rainwater continues to move through the system.
Nationwide Disruption and Weather Warnings
The storm's impact has been felt from the South West to Northern Ireland, with heavy rainfall causing significant travel disruptions. Hundreds of schools were forced to close, and tens of thousands of people were left without power, particularly in Ireland. Domestic flights serving major airports including Birmingham, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow, Leeds Bradford, London City, Manchester, and Southampton were cancelled on Tuesday.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for ice covering much of England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and southern and central Scotland on Wednesday morning. Additionally, a yellow warning for rain is in place for South West England on Thursday, raising concerns about further flooding and transport issues.
Record Rainfall and Flooding Incidents
Storm Chandra has set new January daily rainfall records in several locations. Plymouth (Mountbatten) recorded its highest January rainfall in over a century of observations, while Katesbridge provisionally saw its wettest day on record with 100.8mm of rain. The Environment Agency reported that the River Otter at Fenny Bridges reached a record level of 2.83m, surpassing the previous high set in December 2000.
In Devon and Cornwall, the storm brought significant rainfall on already saturated ground, with East Devon receiving 67mm in 12 hours. Currently, 33 flood alerts and 39 flood warnings are in force across the region, with approximately 20 properties flooded and more expected.
Safety Advice and Emergency Response
Authorities are urging drivers to prepare floodkits, including insurance documents, torches, first aid supplies, warm clothing, and emergency rations. The Met Office has also shared tips for staying safe during icy conditions, advising reduced driving speeds, careful planning for pedestrians and cyclists, and community checks on elderly neighbours.
In Northern Ireland, more than 300 schools closed due to the storm, and a woman was hospitalised after a tree fell on her car in Co Fermanagh, though her injuries are not believed to be serious. Emergency services across affected regions are coordinating responses to manage the ongoing crisis.
