Storm Chandra is poised to slam Britain with torrential rain, fierce winds, and deep snow, prompting widespread warnings and alerts. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow and amber warnings across 120 flood alert zones, forecasting up to 80mm of rain and 20cm of snow.
The storm will first impact South West England from 1pm today before moving eastwards, reaching London by tomorrow. It is expected to affect the country until Tuesday night, bringing hazardous conditions including flooding and snow that could isolate communities.
Following the recent destruction caused by Storm Ingrid over the weekend — which damaged Devon’s Teignmouth Grand Pier and triggered a search for a missing kayaker — residents remain on high alert. Flood warnings remain elevated, with 97 alerts and 19 severe warnings in England alone, along with additional alerts across Wales and Scotland.
Snowfall is forecast to accumulate on higher ground in the Pennines, southern Scotland, and the Highlands, with drifts reaching up to 20cm above 1,600ft.
Storm Warnings and Travel Advice
- Yellow rain warning for South West England and Wales from 1pm today until 10am tomorrow.
- Amber rain warning for Devon and Cornwall from 5pm today to 9am tomorrow.
- Yellow wind warnings for exposed coasts in the Isles of Scilly, Cornwall, and South West Wales, with gusts up to 80mph.
- Snow and rain warnings across northern England and Scotland from midnight until 5pm Tuesday.
- Amber wind warning in Northern Ireland with possible 75mph gusts tomorrow.
The Met Office has cautioned that tiles could be blown off roofs and debris hurled along coastal areas. The public is advised to stay alert and monitor updates regularly.
Experts Warn: Roads Will Be Treacherous
Nick Mullender from the RAC warned, “Flooding is highly likely, making many roads dangerous. Never drive through standing water unless you are 100% sure it’s safe. Wet roads double stopping distances — slow down, stay alert, and avoid unnecessary journeys.”
Storm Ingrid’s Devastation Still Looms Large
Storm Ingrid’s weekend rampage caused significant damage, including collapsed sea walls at Dawlish and South Shields, flooding in York, and a smashed section of Teignmouth’s historic pier. The body of a man found in Exmouth is believed to be one of two swimmers missing since Christmas Day.
Met Office Sounds the Alarm
Paul Gundersen, chief forecaster at the Met Office, said, “Storm Chandra will bring a range of hazards Monday night and Tuesday. Areas still battered by previous storms will see 70-80mph winds and heavy rain on already saturated ground. Snowfalls of up to 20cm are expected in northern highlands. Keep up with warnings and stay safe.”
With violent weather set to pound the UK, the public is urged to prepare for travel disruptions, stay indoors if possible, and remain vigilant against flooding and icy road conditions over the coming days.
Originally published by UKNIP.
