Communities across the southwest of England are bracing for further adverse weather conditions as the Met Office has issued new warnings for ice and heavy rain, following the aftermath of Storm Chandra. With the ground still saturated from recent downpours, the potential for more flooding looms, particularly in areas already affected by the storm.
Ice and Rain Warnings Across the Region
As temperatures are expected to plummet overnight, the Met Office has placed a yellow ice warning across the entire southwest, alongside most of Wales and Northern Ireland. Residents are urged to be cautious of icy surfaces, particularly on roads where slips could pose serious risks. This warning is in effect until 9am on Monday.
In addition to the ice warnings, the Met Office forecasts that heavy rain will return to the southwest by midday on Monday, with rainfall totals of 30-50mm anticipated across Dartmoor and between 10-20mm expected in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset. There is a real possibility of flooding for homes and businesses, with fast-flowing waters creating a “danger to life” scenario, extending the warning until 9am on Tuesday.
Local Impact of Storm Chandra
Just a week ago, the region was battered by Storm Chandra, which caused significant flooding and disruption. Schools were forced to close, and Somerset Council reported that around 50 properties in areas like Ilminster, West Coker, and Taunton faced damage due to floodwaters. The remnants of that storm continue to pose challenges for local residents.
Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk has urged caution, stating, “With further rain on the way after a particularly wet January, we encourage everyone in the southwest to take care.” She highlighted that overnight temperatures could drop below freezing, increasing the risk of frost and icy conditions come Monday morning.
Forecast for the Coming Days
The weather outlook for the next few days remains uncertain. Sunday is expected to start off cloudy with scattered rain, particularly heavy in some areas of Wales. As the day progresses, the rain will move eastward, leaving clearer skies in its wake for some parts of the west.
As for Monday, the region will likely experience a cloudy start with intermittent light rain and showers. While the southwest may see a brief respite from rain in the early hours, heavier downpours are expected to return later in the day. The forecast from Tuesday through Thursday indicates a continuation of unsettled weather, with more rain and brisk winds affecting many areas, and potential snowfall in northern hills.
Why it Matters
The impact of these weather warnings extends beyond mere inconvenience; they affect the daily lives of countless individuals and families. The potential for flooding not only disrupts homes and businesses but also strains local emergency services and infrastructure. As communities recover from the recent storm, these new warnings serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather in an increasingly unpredictable climate. It is crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared, as the consequences of inaction could be dire.
