Torbay braces for another bout of heavy rain and strong winds as Storm Chandra arrives

Torbay is facing another spell of disruptive weather from Monday night into Tuesday, with Storm Chandra set to bring strong winds, heavy rain and hazardous coastal conditions just days after the area was affected by the previous storm.

This second storm will bring gusty winds and persistent rainfall to the south west, with yellow weather warnings in place covering the Torbay area.

Forecasters say the main concern locally will be heavy rain falling on already saturated ground, increasing the risk of surface water flooding, particularly in low-lying and coastal locations.

An amber warning of 30–50mm of rain is expected widely and up to 60–80mm possible over higher ground, including areas of Dartmoor.

Strong winds are also forecast to affect the coast, with gusts of up to 50mph possible in exposed areas, alongside very rough sea conditions. Wave heights of close to three metres are expected at times, prompting warnings for people to stay clear of coastal edges.

Met Office Chief Forecaster Paul Gundersen said the storm would bring a “range of hazards” across the UK.

“Heavy rain is an additional hazard as it falls on saturated ground in Dorset and southern parts of Devon, Somerset and Cornwall,” he said, urging people to keep up to date with forecasts and warnings.

Local tide data shows high tide around midday on Monday and again on Tuesday, which could increase the risk of coastal impacts during periods of strong onshore winds.

The concerns come amid repeated storm damage to coastal defences, including the sea wall at Dawlish Warren. With limited time for repairs or reinforcement following the last storm, further disruption to rail services between Torbay, Teignmouth and Exeter is to be expected.

Residents are being advised to take care when travelling, avoid unnecessary journeys during periods of heavy rain, and stay away from exposed coastal paths and promenades while conditions remain unsettled.

The Met Office says conditions should gradually ease later on Tuesday, but further updates are expected as Storm Chandra continues to track across the country.