The UK is preparing for severe weather as Storm Chandra approaches, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and widespread disruption. Up to eight inches (20cm) of snow is expected to accumulate in highland areas today, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Freezing temperatures will cause rain to turn to snow overnight, affecting the Pennines, southern Scotland, and the Highlands. The Met Office has warned that 10-20cm of snow could fall within hours, making travel difficult or impossible in some locations.
Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued nationwide. An amber rain warning is in effect for South West England from tonight through Tuesday, impacting Devon, Dorset, Somerset, and Cornwall, where 30-50mm of rain is expected, with Dartmoor potentially receiving up to 80mm.
Yellow rain alerts cover the East Midlands, North East and North West England, West Midlands, and Yorkshire, where rain and snow will interact. An amber wind warning is active for eastern Northern Ireland, with gusts up to 70mph forecast today. Yellow wind warnings are also in place for Cornwall, southwest Wales, northern Devon, and southwestern Scotland, with coastal gusts reaching 75mph.
Storm Chandra follows closely after Storms Goretti and Ingrid, bringing further heavy rain that may cause flooding on already saturated ground. This raises concerns about flooding and power outages in vulnerable areas. The storm is expected to first impact the Isles of Scilly, western Cornwall, and southwest Wales before moving north up the Irish Sea. Eastern Northern Ireland is predicted to experience the strongest winds.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Paul Gundersen said: “Gusts of 70 to 80mph are possible in the south west, with heavy rain leading to flooding on saturated ground. Snowfall of 10-20cm will hit higher grounds in the north and Scotland.”
Residents are advised to prepare for dangerous driving conditions, especially on highland and exposed roads. Flooding could isolate some towns, so it is important to stay informed with local alerts. Power outages are likely as gale-force winds affect coastal regions. It is recommended to monitor Met Office warnings and reconsider travel plans during the storm.
Storm Chandra is the UK’s third major storm this month and is expected to cause significant disruption before conditions improve midweek. Stay safe and stay updated with the latest weather information.
Originally published by UKNIP.
