Flood warning near Christchurch as Storm Chandra prompts evacuations

A severe flood warning described as 'danger to life' was issued at Iford Bridge Home Park near Christchurch after River Stour levels rose during Storm Chandra, and residents were told to evacuate while emergency teams assisted.

A severe flood warning described as 'danger to life' was issued for Iford Bridge Home Park near Christchurch, Dorset, as Storm Chandra brought heavy rain and rising river levels. The Environment Agency reported that water could be deep and fast flowing, and local emergency teams and council staff were reported to be assisting people at the site. The wider UK saw multiple weather warnings as the storm caused flooding and travel disruption. Current situation: - The Environment Agency issued a severe flood warning at Iford Bridge Home Park near Christchurch, described as 'danger to life', and residents at the site were told to evacuate as River Stour levels rose. - Emergency services and BCP council staff were reported to be onsite to assist; the site contains about 80 homes and power to the location was expected to be affected by flooding. - River levels were forecast to peak around 3.66m at approximately 2pm on Wednesday, and the agency warned flood water could be deep and fast-flowing. - Storm Chandra prompted a large number of flood warnings and alerts across England, and Somerset Council declared a major incident after flooding affected several properties and caused road and school disruptions. Summary: Local residents at the Iford Bridge Home Park were told to evacuate and emergency teams were reported to be assisting as River Stour levels rose and flooding risk increased; power at the site was expected to be impacted. Undetermined at this time.