Severe weather alerts have been issued in various areas of the UK due to heavy rainfall that poses a risk of flooding, travel disruptions, and potential evacuations in at least 15 locations. Additional yellow rain warnings are currently in effect for South West England, Hampshire, and parts of Northern Ireland as Storm Chandra continues to bring heavy rains, resulting in widespread flooding and the closure of over 350 schools.
The Met Office has cautioned residents to expect further rain from Thursday afternoon into early Friday, which could lead to transportation issues, worsen existing flooding, and potentially cause power outages and property damage. People residing in or passing through areas under the latest flood warnings are advised to prepare a flood plan and assemble an emergency flood kit.
In South West England, a band of rain is forecasted to move across Cornwall on Thursday afternoon, moving northeast. While the rainfall in any specific location is expected to be brief, it may be intense at times, with up to 25mm expected in the hardest-hit regions.
Given the saturated ground and ongoing flooding following Storm Chandra, the likelihood of adverse effects from these rainfall amounts is heightened, according to the Met Office. Northern Ireland is expected to experience heavy rain on Thursday night and Friday, particularly in Antrim and Down, where accumulations of 10-25mm are anticipated, with higher amounts possible in hilly areas. Strong southeasterly winds are also likely during this period.
Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to prepare essential items such as torches, batteries, and a mobile phone power pack as part of their emergency flood kit.