Storm Chandra’s Record-Breaking Assault (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Storm Chandra left a trail of flooded roads, record rainfall, and disrupted travel across swathes of Britain earlier this week, and forecasters now predict more heavy rain to compound the misery.[1][2]
Storm Chandra’s Record-Breaking Assault
The storm battered the UK from January 26 to 27, unleashing persistent heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow in northern hills. Southwest England bore the brunt, with Devon recording the nation’s highest total of 115.1 mm at White Barrow.[2] Other sites like Katesbridge in County Down saw 114.8 mm, shattering previous January records.
Somerset declared a major incident as rivers overflowed and homes submerged. A lorry driver perished in the New Forest after his vehicle plunged into a swollen river. Dozens of flood warnings lingered, stranding cars in Axminster and prompting rescues across Dorset.[3]
Fresh Yellow Warnings Take Effect
The Met Office issued yellow alerts for rain starting Thursday night into Friday. One covers southwest England from 9 a.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday, while another blankets Northern Ireland from midnight Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday.[1]
“Spells of heavy rain will move over Northern Ireland during Thursday night and Friday,” the Met Office stated. “While the wettest conditions are likely over Antrim and Down, there is potential for many areas to see 10-25 mm build up, with 40-60 mm over some hills.”[1] Strong southeasterly winds will accompany the deluge.
Prime Targets for the Next Onslaught
Weather maps highlight southwest England as a focal point, with rain pushing northeast from Cornwall. Northern Ireland faces widespread coverage, especially riskier hills.
- Cornwall: Up to 30 mm possible on moors and western areas.
- Devon, Plymouth, Somerset, Torbay: 10-20 mm widely on saturated ground.
- Antrim and Down: Heaviest accumulations expected.
- Dorset and Hampshire: Further warnings amid ongoing floods.
- London and southeast England: Thursday alert lingers.
These zones already grapple with elevated river levels and surface water from Chandra’s legacy.[4]
Disruptions and Safety Concerns Ahead
Falling on waterlogged soil, the incoming rain threatens more flooding, road closures, and transport delays. Rail, air, and ferry services face cancellations, while power outages loom in isolated spots. The RNLI cautioned of 15-foot waves surging onto Devon and Cornwall shores.[1]
Dorset Council advised drivers to shun floodwater, as some rivers hit record highs. “The impact would be greater because of saturated ground and ongoing flooding,” the Met Office noted for affected regions.[4]
| Site | Rainfall (mm) | Region |
|---|---|---|
| White Barrow | 115.1 | Devon |
| Katesbridge | 114.8 | County Down |
| Banagher, Caugh Hill | 83.2 | Londonderry |
Such volumes underscore the storm’s ferocity.[2]
As unsettled weather persists into the weekend, communities must stay vigilant. Check local forecasts and heed warnings to navigate the risks.
Key Takeaways:
- Southwest England and Northern Ireland top the list for Friday’s heavy rain.
- Expect 10-30 mm accumulations, worsening floods on soaked ground.
- Travel disruptions and power cuts possible – plan accordingly.
Storm Chandra proved how quickly conditions can escalate; proactive measures now could avert greater harm. What steps are you taking to prepare? Share in the comments.
