Somerset flooding declared major incident after Storm Chandra

Published: 28 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A major incident has been declared in Somerset as Storm Chandra caused widespread flooding and severe disruption. Flooding in Somerset has affected dozens of properties and left roads impassable, prompting local authorities to mobilise emergency response teams throughout the night. The Somerset council reported that Ilminster, West Coker, Taunton, Mudford, and West Camel were particularly affected, with rainwater overwhelming drainage systems and putting further homes at risk. Emergency services continue to monitor the Somerset Levels and Moors, as the risk of severe flooding remains high due to saturated land and ongoing rainfall.

Storm Chandra, which hit south-west England with relentless heavy rain and strong winds, follows earlier disruptions from storms Goretti and Ingrid. Somerset council leader Bill Revans said more than 50mm of rainfall fell overnight, worsening already flooded areas and prompting urgent action. Teams worked overnight to rescue stranded residents and secure properties, highlighting how vulnerable the region is to extreme weather. Revans stressed that preparedness remains a priority as forecasts predict further challenging conditions.

Across the south-west, the flooding situation was mirrored in Devon and Cornwall, where rivers rose to record levels and authorities warned residents to avoid unnecessary travel. In Ottery St Mary, the River Otter surged to its highest recorded level, while Devon and Cornwall police advised caution for Exeter and surrounding areas. Devon and Somerset fire services rescued people from 25 vehicles trapped in floodwaters, thankfully with no casualties reported.

Julian Brazil, leader of Devon county council, criticised national infrastructure investment priorities, highlighting that the south-west feels isolated and under-supported. Disrupted rail services, including London-bound routes, left many residents stranded or relying on bus transfers. Brazil emphasised that local communities are left feeling neglected despite billions invested in northern rail improvements. Residents echoed frustration after repeated storms left homes without power, water, and internet, exacerbating fears of ongoing vulnerability.

MP Richard Foord described the situation as “horrendous,” predicting that property damage would increase as floodwaters persisted. Environmental concerns have also emerged, with the Devon Wildlife Trust warning that rapidly rising water threatens local beaver populations. The forceful water, combined with debris, endangers young and inexperienced animals whose burrows could be overwhelmed. Conservationists stressed that even semi-aquatic mammals are at risk during extreme flooding.

Local groups on the Somerset Levels expressed frustration at insufficient maintenance of waterways. The Flooding on the Levels Action Group (Flag) noted that a key pumping station was offline earlier this month due to planned electrical works, leaving residents exposed to rising water. Bryony Sadler of Flag urged homeowners to protect property and relocate livestock preemptively, reflecting growing anxiety over repeated flooding events.

Climate experts note that extreme rainfall is becoming more frequent and intense due to human-driven climate change. Warmer air holds more water vapour, increasing the likelihood of sudden, heavy downpours. Human factors such as land use, flood defence maintenance, and drainage infrastructure further influence flood severity. The Met Office reported 105mm of rain fell on Dartmoor within 12 hours, alongside 75mph gusts at St Bees Head and 63mph winds at Machrihanish, demonstrating the storm’s intensity.

By late Tuesday, England faced 96 flood warnings, indicating expected flooding, with over 250 flood alerts in place as rain continued to impact already saturated areas. Wales and Scotland also experienced warnings, with three flood warnings and 17 alerts in Wales and eight warnings and eight alerts across Scotland. The situation has prompted significant travel disruption nationwide, with road closures, rail interruptions, and cancelled domestic flights affecting major airports including Birmingham, Heathrow, and Manchester.

Northern England and south Wales reported travel disruptions from rain, wind, and snow. Yellow warnings for ice and rain remain in place across large areas of the UK, with South West England bracing for additional rainfall. GWR confirmed that a large sinkhole caused by Storm Ingrid would keep the Exeter St Davids to Newton Abbott line closed into Thursday, compounding commuter disruption.

Residents have described frightening experiences as homes filled with water rapidly. Billy Vernon, trapped with his teenage sons in Devon, recounted wading through waist-deep water to retrieve essentials while floodwaters destroyed furniture and damaged property. Stories like Vernon’s underscore the personal toll of Storm Chandra, with communities across the south-west forced to adapt to repeated extreme weather events. Emergency services, local councils, and volunteers continue working to mitigate damage while authorities assess the full impact of flooding.

Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall remain on high alert, with ongoing rainfall and saturated landscapes creating persistent flood risks. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant, follow emergency guidance, and prepare for potential evacuations. Storm Chandra’s impact serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of low-lying regions and the urgent need for improved flood resilience. The south-west continues to face extreme weather challenges, highlighting the importance of investment in infrastructure and preparedness for future storms.

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