England's Storm Chandra Aftermath: 150+ Flood Alerts, Ongoing Risks
The aftermath of Storm Chandra continues to pose significant challenges for England, with nearly 150 flood alerts still in effect across the country. The Met Office and Environment Agency are urging residents to remain vigilant as heavy rain and potential flooding persist.
A yellow rain alert is in place for southwest England, covering areas like Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Plymouth, Somerset, Torbay, and Wiltshire. This alert spans from noon to midnight on Thursday, with the Met Office warning of potential flooding on roads, homes, and businesses.
Another yellow warning for rain is issued for Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset, and Torbay, starting at 6 am on Friday and ending at 9 am on Saturday. The Met Office predicts heavy rain could lead to power outages, travel disruptions, and further flooding.
The Environment Agency reports that 147 properties were flooded in Somerset and Dorset due to the storm. A major incident has been declared in Somerset, where local council leader Bill Revans confirms teams worked tirelessly through the night to address impassable roads.
Revans emphasizes the priority to support vulnerable residents and ensure people are aware of available assistance.
Additionally, a third yellow warning for rain is issued for most of Northern Ireland, spanning from midnight to 6 pm on Friday. England's flood situation remains critical, with 66 flood warnings and 149 flood alerts in place on Thursday.
Despite a severe 'danger to life' flood warning for the Lower Stour at Iford Bridge Home Park, Bournemouth, being lifted, the Environment Agency reminds residents that water levels are still high, and those who have evacuated should follow local response partners' advice before returning.
The Met Office predicts heavy rain outbreaks in Cornwall on Friday morning, with 10mm to 20mm of rainfall expected widely, and up to 30mm possible over the moors and west Cornwall. Strong winds are also anticipated in certain areas.
The RNLI issues a warning for vigilance near the coast in Devon and Cornwall due to potential waves up to 15ft high, which could impact beaches, seafronts, and harbour walls.
