Storm Chandra Causes Widespread Disruption Across the UK and Ireland

Storm Chandra has brought severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, leading to significant flooding, travel disruptions, and school closures across the UK and Ireland. The storm, which began affecting the region on January 27, 2026, is the third named storm of the month, following Storms Goretti and Ingrid.

Storm Chandra: UK braces for wind and rain as weather warnings issuedStorm Chandra hits the United Kingdom and Ireland, causing heavy travel disruptionStorm Chandra brings flooding and travel disruption with rain and wind warnings across UKStorm Chandra forecast to bring snow, strong winds and heavy rain to UKStorm Chandra flooding map shows dozens of areas where there is 'danger to life'Storm Chandra in pictures as UK and Ireland lashed with heavy rain and strong windsStorm Chandra LIVE: Fierce gusts and heavy rain to spark school closures across UK

As Storm Chandra swept through the UK, it resulted in multiple road closures, with the M1 motorway in Northern Ireland closed due to flooding. Over 350 schools in Northern Ireland were closed, and thousands of properties experienced power outages, with reports indicating that approximately 3,800 homes were without electricity at one point. The storm's peak wind gusts reached 81 mph (130 km/h) at Orlock Head, contributing to hazardous conditions.

Weather: Storm Chandra results in M1 motorway closure and power loss

In Devon, emergency services rescued individuals from 25 vehicles trapped in floodwaters. The River Otter in Ottery St Mary reached dangerously high levels, prompting severe flood warnings. Residents were advised to evacuate if necessary, as floodwaters were expected to be deep and fast-flowing.

Storm Chandra brings flooding, travel disruption and school closures across UK

The Met Office has emphasized the need for residents to stay informed about weather warnings and to prepare for potential flooding. Local authorities across affected regions have mobilized emergency response teams to assist residents and manage the impacts of the storm.

Yellow weather warning for Exeter as further heavy rain follows Storm Chandra

Critics have raised concerns about the preparedness of local authorities in managing the aftermath of Storm Chandra, particularly in light of the recent storms that have already strained resources. Some residents expressed frustration over the lack of timely communication regarding road closures and safety advisories.

Storm Chandra brings flooding and travel disruption with rain and wind warnings across UK

As Storm Chandra continues to affect the region, further rain is expected, particularly in already saturated areas. The Met Office has issued additional weather warnings, advising residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and travel disruptions in the coming days.

Yellow weather warning for Exeter as further heavy rain follows Storm Chandra

• “At the moment, it’s a raging torrent.” — Jackie Blackford, Resident of Ottery St Mary

Storm Chandra brings flooding, travel disruption and school closures across UK

• “Please do not attempt to drive through it.” — Devon and Cornwall Police Spokesperson

Storm Chandra brings flooding, travel disruption and school closures across UK

• “Storm Chandra is the latest manifestation of that,” — Micheál Martin, Taoiseach of Ireland

Storm Chandra: ‘Enniscorthy looks like a lake’ – counties in the east and southeast worst hit by flooding, with more downpours forecast

Storm Chandra's impact underscores the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, prompting discussions on preparedness and response strategies across the UK and Ireland.

Storm Chandra: UK braces for wind and rain as weather warnings issued