ALERT: Amber Weather Warning issued for Exeter as Storm Chandra brings flooding risk and travel disruption

An amber weather warning has been issued for Exeter as Storm Chandra is set to bring prolonged heavy rain, flooding and widespread disruption from Monday 26 January into Tuesday 27 January.

The Met Office warning covers Exeter and much of the South West, with Storm Chandra expected to arrive later on Monday before intensifying overnight. 

The storm is forecast to bring persistent rain, heavy at times, combined with strong south-easterly winds, before conditions gradually clear north-eastwards during Tuesday morning.

Forecasters say rainfall totals of 30–50mm are likely across the region, with higher accumulations of 60–80mm possible on higher ground, particularly over south Dartmoor. 

With the ground already saturated following recent wet weather, this rainfall is expected to significantly increase the risk of surface water flooding and river flooding across Exeter and surrounding areas.

READ NEXT: Westbank celebrates 40 years of supporting Exeter communities 

The Met Office warns that homes and businesses in Exeter could be flooded, with potential damage to buildings. Fast-flowing or deep floodwater is also likely in places, posing a risk to life. 

Transport disruption is expected, with delays and some cancellations to bus and train services serving the city, alongside difficult driving conditions caused by spray and flooding on roads.

There is also a strong likelihood of road closures, particularly on routes vulnerable to flooding, and a good chance that some communities around Exeter could be temporarily cut off. 

Power cuts and interruptions to other essential services are possible, while landslides may occur in prone locations due to the prolonged rainfall and saturated ground.

Storm Chandra is being driven by a slow-moving weather system drawing in moist air from the south, which is expected to stall over the South West for several hours. 

The Met Office says this combination of persistent rainfall and strong winds is why the warning has been escalated to amber, indicating a medium likelihood of disruption with a medium potential impact.

Residents in Exeter are being urged to take precautions. The Met Office advises people to avoid travelling by road during the worst conditions if possible and to drive cautiously if travel is essential. 

Members of the public are warned not to walk, drive or swim through floodwater, and to call 999 if they are affected by fast-flowing or deep water.

People living in flood-prone areas are encouraged to prepare a flood kit, including important documents, a torch and spare batteries, a first aid kit, prescription medication, warm clothing, food and water, and supplies for pets. 

Residents are also being advised to check on vulnerable neighbours, including older people and those with underlying health conditions.

The amber warning has been issued due to the combined likelihood of severe weather and its potential impacts, particularly during Tuesday morning when flooding and travel disruption are expected to peak.

People across Exeter are being advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts from the Met Office and follow guidance from emergency services and local authorities as Storm Chandra moves through the region.