Yellow rain alerts are in effect across parts of southwest England following Storm Chandra, impacting areas already saturated from previous rainfall. The Met Office issued the alerts from 12pm today through 9am on Tuesday, covering Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset, and warns of potential property flooding.
Further Rainfall Expected
Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey reports that a band of rain will move gradually northward today. He anticipates 10 to 20 millimeters of rain across the region, with localized areas – particularly over the hills of Dartmoor – potentially receiving 50 to 60 millimeters due to the already saturated ground.
While the anticipated rainfall is not expected to reach the levels seen in previous storms, Mr. Vautrey cautions that it has the potential to worsen existing conditions.
As of this morning, 119 flood alerts are active nationwide, with 57 warnings specifically in England, concentrated in Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire.
Potential for Disruption
The forecaster warns that the additional rain poses a risk to travel, with the possibility of fast-flowing or deep floodwater creating a “danger to life” and potentially isolating communities. Somerset Council has specifically cautioned that further rainfall could lead to flooding in additional homes in the Moorland, Saltmoor, and Currymoor areas.
Last week, a major incident was declared in Somerset after approximately 50 properties were affected by flooding linked to Storm Chandra.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are currently under a rain alert?
Yellow rain alerts are currently in place for Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset, extending from 12pm today to 9am on Tuesday.
How much rain is expected?
The Met Office forecasts 10 to 20 millimeters of rain across the affected areas, with up to 50 to 60 millimeters possible on Dartmoor.
What is the potential impact of the rain?
The forecaster says further rain today also brings the potential risk of causing difficulty on roads, with fast-flowing or deep floodwater potentially causing a “danger to life” and communities being cut off by floods.
As conditions remain dynamic, what steps will residents in affected areas take to prepare for potential flooding?
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