Residents at a mobile home park in Dorset have been urgently instructed to evacuate due to the advancing Storm Chandra. The River Stour is swelling, leading to predictions of severe flooding and swift, deep water at Iford Bridge Home Park near Christchurch. An official ‘danger to life’ flood warning was issued by the Environment Agency (EA) on Wednesday morning, alerting residents to the anticipated hazardous conditions.
The EA emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that flooding is expected to be significant and rapid, with rising river levels necessitating immediate evacuation. Support from the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council (BCP Council) has been mobilized, alongside emergency services, to aid in the evacuation process.
Residents of the park, comprising 80 homes, have been advised to prepare essential items, including medications, in a bag and be ready to spend the night away from their residences, as power outages are expected due to flooding. The EA further advised residents to move their families, pets, and vehicles to safety, and shut off gas, electricity, and water if it can be done safely.
River levels are projected to peak at 3.66m around 2pm on Wednesday. In a related development, Somerset Council declared a major incident following the adverse weather conditions brought by Storm Chandra, resulting in disruption and flooding across the region and beyond.
The council reported around 50 properties affected by flooding in various areas, including Ilminster, West Coker, Taunton, Mudford, and West Camel. Council leader Bill Revans stressed the importance of preparedness in collaboration with emergency services as the weather outlook remains challenging.
Multiple road closures were enforced in Somerset due to flooding, landslides, and fallen trees, with eight schools closed in the county as a precautionary measure. In a separate incident, Liberal Democrat MP Richard Foord mentioned reports of approximately 20 flooded properties in Devon and Cornwall, with expectations of an increase in such incidents.
Weather warnings for rain were issued in the South West of England, with numerous flood alerts and warnings across England, Wales, and Scotland. The situation remains dynamic, with authorities closely monitoring and responding to the evolving weather conditions.