Further flood warnings as Storm Chandra rages on

The Environment Agency has told people to remain vigilant to the risk of flooding, as further yellow rain warnings are set to come into force because of Storm Chandra. Weather conditions are forecast to remain unsettled today and tomorrow, and there are Met Office warnings in place for the southwest of England for both days, and Northern Ireland tomorrow.

- CLAIRE HAYHURST

Rain will be falling on already saturated ground, prompting concerns about further flooding. An estimated 63 properties across England have been flooded, while almost 10,900 have been protected through Environment Agency action, a spokesperson said.

In Somerset, a major incident was declared on Tuesday after Storm Chandra caused flooding to roads and properties. Hampshire Police said a lorry driver in his sixties died after crashing into a river in North Gorley on Tuesday. On Wednesday, a severe flood warning was issued for the Lower Stour at Iford Bridge Home Park, where residents were told to evacuate their properties “as soon as possible”.

In a statement yesterday, Chris Wilding, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by Storm Chandra, including those whose homes and businesses have sadly been flooded. Significant river flooding impacts are probable in parts of the southwest of England today. Further flooding impacts are also expected for parts of England on Thursday, and into early Friday morning.

“Environment Agency teams are out on the ground, including in Somerset, to reduce the impact of flooding and support those communities affected. We urge people not to drive though floodwater - it is often deeper than it looks, and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.”

Floods minister Emma Hardy said: “Flooding is devastating, and my thoughts are with the people affected. I am in regular contact with the Environment Agency on their response to the ongoing flooding in Somerset and Dorset, who, alongside local authorities and the emergency services, are already taking action to keep communities safe. I urge residents to follow local advice over the next few days to ensure they stay safe.