Storm Chandra Sparks 'Danger to Life' Flood Alerts and Widespread UK Disruption
A severe danger to life flood warning has been issued as Storm Chandra continues to cause extensive disruption across the United Kingdom. Residents of Iford Bridge Home Park, located near Christchurch in Dorset, have been urgently instructed to "evacuate as quickly as possible" due to rapidly rising water levels from the River Stour.
Immediate Evacuation Orders in Dorset
The Environment Agency has warned that flooding at the park, which houses approximately 80 homes, is expected to be "deep and fast flowing" later today. Power supplies to the site are anticipated to be impacted, adding to the urgency of the situation. Officials have advised residents to:
- Move family members, pets, and vehicles to safety immediately.
- Turn off gas, electricity, and water supplies if it is safe to do so.
- Avoid all non-essential travel and never attempt to drive through floodwater.
This evacuation order follows the declaration of a major incident in Somerset on Tuesday evening, where an estimated 50 properties were affected by flooding in areas including Ilminster, West Coker, Taunton, Mudford, and West Camel.
Nationwide Flood Warnings and Alerts
As of Wednesday morning, the UK is grappling with a significant number of flood warnings and alerts:
- England: 85 flood warnings (where flooding is expected) and 214 flood alerts (where flooding is possible).
- Wales: Nine flood alerts currently in place.
- Scotland: Seven flood warnings and three flood alerts active.
Notably, Katesbridge in Northern Ireland recorded 103mm of rainfall on Tuesday, according to Met Office data, highlighting the intensity of the storm.
Travel Chaos and Rescue Operations
The storm has led to substantial travel disruptions across the country. In southwest England, multiple roads have been closed due to flooding, while rail services are severely affected. Great Western Railway has advised passengers not to travel between Exeter St Davids and both Okehampton and Barnstaple, citing that "poor road conditions" prevent the provision of replacement buses. Additional service disruptions are reported in Somerset and Cornwall, with travellers urged to check conditions before embarking on journeys.
Emergency services have been actively involved in rescue efforts. Firefighters in Devon and Somerset successfully rescued individuals from 25 vehicles trapped in floodwater on Tuesday, with a spokesman confirming there were no casualties. Similar operations have been conducted in other affected regions, including Ireland.
Ongoing Weather Threats and Forecast
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, effective from midday until 11.59pm on Thursday for the southwest of England. This warning indicates that further rainfall could exacerbate flooding and cause additional disruption. The agency has cautioned that "there is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life."
Sky News meteorologist Dr Christopher England provided insight into the ongoing conditions, stating that the flood risk persists in the South and East as yesterday's rain moves through river systems. He added that unsettled weather may continue "into next week," with further heavy rain expected in the South West on Thursday and Friday, which will increase the flooding threat. While winds are predicted to pick up, they are not expected to reach the levels seen during the initial storm.
For today, conditions are forecast to be mostly fine with some showers, primarily affecting Ireland, Northern Ireland, and northeastern Scotland. Residents across the UK are advised to stay informed through local weather updates and heed all safety warnings issued by authorities.
