Storm Chandra Map: UK Braces for Snow, Wind and Heavy Rain Onslaught
The Met Office has issued a series of severe weather warnings as the newly named Storm Chandra sweeps across the United Kingdom, bringing a potent mix of disruptive conditions. Forecasters are warning of strong winds, heavy rainfall and significant snowfall affecting large swathes of the country throughout Tuesday, with the potential for damage and travel chaos.
Amber and Yellow Warnings Issued Nationwide
Several weather warnings have been activated by the Met Office in response to the approaching storm system. The most serious amber warnings are currently in effect for specific regions. These include an amber warning for rain covering parts of south-west England and a separate amber warning for wind targeting the eastern coastline of Northern Ireland.
Less severe, but still significant, yellow weather warnings blanket all of Northern Ireland and extend across a more extensive area of south-west England. These yellow alerts also cover parts of northern England and Scotland, indicating widespread disruptive weather.
Regions Facing the Most Severe Impact
The areas under the highest level amber alert are expected to bear the brunt of Storm Chandra's fury. In Northern Ireland, the counties of Derry, Down and Antrim are specifically highlighted. Across the Irish Sea, the south-west English counties of Cornwall, Somerset, Devon and Dorset are also under the amber warning for heavy, persistent rain.
Other regions across the UK are subject to dual yellow warnings for a combination of rain, snow and wind. These areas include:
- Scottish regions: Argyll and Bute, South Ayrshire, and Dumfries and Galloway.
- Welsh counties: Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Swansea.
Dangerous Winds and Coastal Hazards
The Met Office has detailed that easterly winds will intensify early on Tuesday morning, generating gusts of 60-70 mph across eastern and northern parts of Northern Ireland. Some exposed coastal locations could experience even stronger gusts reaching up to 75 mph. Heavy rain will compound the hazardous conditions.
There is a brief potential for winds to ease slightly in the early afternoon before increasing once more from a south-easterly direction later in the day and into the early evening. The combination of high winds and heavy rain brings a significant risk of damage to buildings, with the potential for tiles to be blown from roofs and flying debris causing life-threatening injuries.
Coastal areas face additional severe hazards. Large, powerful waves are predicted, which could throw beach material onto nearby roads, seafronts and properties. The Met Office has stated this poses a "danger to life". Residents and visitors are strongly advised to stay away from the coast during the storm. Even from the shore, large breaking waves possess enough force to sweep people off their feet and out to sea. Those walking near cliffs should know their route thoroughly and keep dogs on a lead.
Major Travel Disruption Expected
The severe weather is anticipated to cause significant nationwide travel disruption. Longer journey times and cancellations are expected across road, rail, air and ferry services. Some roads and bridges may be forced to close due to dangerous conditions or debris.
Forecasters strongly advise against driving in these dangerous conditions where possible. The public is urged to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid being vulnerable to injury from high winds and flying debris. In any coastal emergency, the public should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
As Storm Chandra moves across the British Isles, residents are being urged to stay informed via the latest Met Office updates and to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of severe weather.
