Storm Chandra Unleashes Widespread Disruption Across UK with 'Danger to Life' Warnings

Storm Chandra Batters UK with Severe Flooding and High Winds

Storm Chandra brought widespread disruption to the United Kingdom on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, unleashing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and significant snowfall in northern regions. The storm, the fifth named storm of the 2025/26 season, prompted 'danger to life' warnings and led to extensive flooding, travel chaos, and numerous school closures across the nation.

'Danger to Life' Warnings Issued Amid Record River Levels

The Environment Agency issued two severe flood warnings, indicating a 'danger to life,' in the South West of England. One warning was for Ottery St Mary in Devon, where the River Otter reached its highest recorded level, surpassing a previous record from December 2000. Floodwater in this area was described as 'deep and fast flowing'. A second severe warning was issued for the Upper Frome at Dorchester in Dorset. The Met Office had issued amber warnings for wind and rain across various parts of the UK, with gusts reaching up to 75mph in coastal locations and 60-70mph in eastern Northern Ireland. Rainfall totals included 67mm in East Devon and 88mm on Dartmoor within a 12-hour period, with Somerset experiencing over 50mm of rain.

Travel Networks Paralysed and Schools Closed

The storm severely impacted travel across the UK. Road networks experienced widespread disruption, with multiple closures due to flooding, including the A30 in Devon and the closure of the M48 Severn Bridge. Police in Devon and Cornwall urged residents to avoid non-essential travel. Rail services faced cancellations as tracks became flooded. Air travel was also significantly affected, with dozens of flights cancelled at both Belfast City and Belfast International airports. Ferry services, including those operated by Stena Line, saw multiple cancellations on routes across the Irish Sea.

Educational institutions were widely impacted, with nearly 250 schools closing across the UK. Specifically, over 300 schools and higher education providers were shut in Northern Ireland, and 47 schools closed in Devon. Beyond the UK, the Republic of Ireland also experienced significant flooding and school closures due to Storm Chandra.

Emergency Response and Ongoing Concerns

A major incident was declared in Somerset as emergency services responded to the widespread flooding. Firefighters in Devon and Somerset rescued individuals from 25 vehicles stranded in floodwaters. By Tuesday evening, England had 96 flood warnings and over 250 flood alerts in place, with additional warnings and alerts across Wales and Scotland. The Met Office also issued yellow warnings for ice for Wednesday, January 28, across large parts of the UK, anticipating further disruption from freezing temperatures on already saturated surfaces.