Storm Chandra has continued to wreak havoc across the UK, bringing intense wind and rainfall as the country grapples with the third named storm of the year. Currently, over 100 flood warnings are active, along with yellow ice warnings affecting much of the nation during morning commutes. National Rail has alerted travelers of potential disruptions extending until Friday across England, Scotland, and Wales. A major incident has been declared in Somerset, where approximately 50 properties have suffered from flooding. Further disturbances are expected, with a yellow rain warning issued for southwest England on Thursday.
The arrival of Storm Chandra comes shortly after Storm Ingrid, which inflicted considerable damage and destruction over the weekend, exacerbating the chances of flooding on already saturated terrains. As of Wednesday morning, England faces 100 flood warnings and 260 flood alerts, while Wales has three flood warnings and 16 alerts, and Scotland has eight flood warnings and alerts each.
Weather conditions are expected to diverge, with many areas enjoying some dry spells and sunshine after a chilly start with isolated icy patches. Northeast Scotland, however, may continue to experience residual wet and windy conditions from the storm. Scattered showers are anticipated in south Wales and southwest England, though these should not heighten the flooding issue. Anticipated rainfall on Thursday and Friday, estimated between 10-20mm, could potentially incite further flooding complications. Additionally, early Friday forecasts predict a snowfall of 2-7cm over the Pennines and Southern Uplands above 200m, posing potential travel challenges.
On Tuesday, England witnessed two severe flood warnings, indicative of life-threatening situations, both of which have since been revoked. These were concerning Upper Frome, Dorchester, and Ottery St Mary in Devon, where the River Otter soared to record levels. "It's a raging torrent," shared Jackie Blackford from BBC Radio Devon, describing the river's condition as unprecedented. The severe weather led to school closures in various parts of England and Northern Ireland. Several areas, including Northern Ireland's Katesbridge, Plymouth's Mountbatten, and Hurn in Dorset, recorded new daily rainfall highs for January. Northern Ireland also saw over 10,000 properties lose power alongside over 300 school closures. Wind gusts peaked at 80mph at Orlock Head on the Ards Peninsula, and several domestic flights and ferry services were cancelled. In the Republic of Ireland, the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) reported power cuts affecting approximately 20,000 homes, farms, and businesses. Notably, Storm Chandra marks the third significant storm to impact the UK in January, succeeding Ingrid and Goretti, the latter noted as one of the most significant storms to hit Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in decades. Extra reporting contributed by Kathryn Armstrong, Chloe Gibson, and Christine Butler.
A fallen tree also obstructed a lane in Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, following the storm's path.