Why are hundreds of schools closed in the UK due to Storm Chandra?

Hundreds of schools are closed across Northern Ireland and the South West of England due to the dangerous conditions brought by Storm Chandra, including ice and severe flooding.

What is the flood situation in Somerset and Devon?

Somerset has declared a major incident due to extensive flooding, and the River Otter in Devon reached its highest recorded level, leading to severe flood warnings.

How long will the travel disruption from Storm Chandra last?

Travel disruption is expected to continue until Friday, with cancelled trains, speed restrictions, and closed roads impacting journeys across the UK.

Home / Weather / Storm Chandra Batters UK: Schools Shut, 100 Flood Warnings Issued

Storm Chandra Batters UK: Schools Shut, 100 Flood Warnings Issued

29 Jan

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Summary

Hundreds of schools in Northern Ireland and South West England remain closed.
Over 100 flood warnings are in effect, with severe alerts in Somerset and Devon.
Severe weather has caused widespread travel disruption, including road and rail closures.

Storm Chandra Batters UK: Schools Shut, 100 Flood Warnings Issued

As of 2026-01-29T12:28:46+00:00, Storm Chandra continues to bring dangerous weather conditions to the UK. Hundreds of schools are closed, particularly in Northern Ireland where over 350 remain shut, and dozens are closed across the South West of England. An ice warning is in effect for all regions of Northern Ireland, replacing yesterday's amber warning.

Numerous flood warnings, numbering nearly 100, are active. Somerset has declared a major incident due to significant flooding, and the River Otter in Devon saw its highest recorded level. Firefighters have rescued 25 people trapped in floodwater in Devon and Cornwall. Travel is severely disrupted, with roads, rail lines, and airports affected. National Rail anticipates disruption until Friday.