Storm Chandra: The One Thing Drivers Must Never Do in Heavy Rain
With Storm Chandra sweeping across the UK, drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads as heavy rain and strong winds cause hazardous conditions nationwide.
The Met Office has issued multiple rain and weather alerts across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, warning that Storm Chandra is bringing prolonged spells of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and a heightened risk of flooding—particularly in low-lying and already saturated areas.
Flooding, Road Closures & Dangerous Driving Conditions
According to the Met Office, large parts of the UK could see significant rainfall totals, with higher ground exposed to strong winds facing the worst conditions. In Scotland, areas such as Aberdeenshire and Perthshire are at particular risk, with waterlogged ground from recent rain and snowmelt increasing the chance of surface flooding.
As a result, drivers may encounter:
- Reduced visibility due to spray
- Flooded roads and standing water
- Sudden road closures
- Communities temporarily cut off by floodwater
All of this adds up to one thing: dangerous driving conditions.
The One Thing Drivers Are Told Never To Do
The Met Office has been crystal clear about one major risk drivers must avoid during Storm Chandra:
Never drive through flood water.
Their severe weather advice states that driving through flooded roads is the number one cause of death during flooding events. Even when water looks shallow, it can be far deeper—and far more powerful—than it appears.
Just 30cm (12 inches) of moving water is enough to lift and float a car, potentially sweeping it into deeper water and putting occupants in serious danger. Flood water can also hide debris, open drains, and damaged road surfaces that can cause immediate loss of control.
There’s also the risk to your vehicle itself. Even a small amount of water entering the engine can cause severe and costly damage, potentially leaving you stranded.
The message is simple and life-saving:
If the road is flooded, turn around and find another route.
Be Prepared Before You Set Off
With Storm Chandra continuing to disrupt travel, drivers are also being encouraged to prepare for the unexpected. Packing a few emergency essentials in your car can make a big difference if delays or breakdowns occur.
Recommended items include:
- A blanket or warm clothing
- Food and water
- A charged phone or power bank
- Basic emergency supplies
- Stay Safe on the Roads
Storm Chandra is a reminder that extreme weather can change driving conditions fast. Slowing down, planning routes carefully, and knowing when to turn back can help keep you—and everyone else—safe.
And remember: no journey is worth the risk of driving through flood water.
Thank you to Shutterstock gnepphoto for first image
Thank you to Shutterstock Bilanol for second image
