Flood chaos has smashed the South West’s roads, forcing multiple closures and snarling traffic. Brace yourself for snarling delays and tricky detours as crews battle rising floodwaters.
Flooded Hotspots Bring the South West to a Standstill
A30 – East Devon
The A30 is completely shut both ways from the B3174/B3180 junction near Ottery St Mary to the B3184 near Exeter Airport. Rising floodwaters have made the road impassable. Emergency teams are on site, keeping a close eye on water levels and working to reopen the road as soon as it’s safe.
A303 – Somerset/Devon Border
The A303 is closed in both directions between the A30 at Upottery and the A358 at Horton Cross due to swollen floodwaters. National Highways crews and police are controlling traffic and clearing the water.
A35 – Dorset
The A35 has also been shut both ways between the A352 Max Gate junction and the B3150 Stinsford Roundabout near Dorchester. Surface flooding has made this stretch too dangerous to drive.
Travel Alert: Avoid Flood Zones and Plan Ahead
Drivers must plan journeys carefully, avoid unnecessary travel, and expect delays. Nearby local roads are also flooded. Remember: never risk driving through floodwater — it’s a deadly gamble.
How Flooded Roads Get Back on Track
Specialist crews inspect drains, gullies, and ditches to clear blockages caused by leaves and debris. When drainage systems can’t cope, pumps remove excess water — but only if downstream areas can handle the flow.
Storm Chandra Unleashes Torrential Rain and High Winds
The Met Office has slapped the South West with an amber weather warning as Storm Chandra pounds the region. Expect 30-50mm of rain, with up to 80mm in the hills. Winds may hit 60-70mph, whipping up flooding and travel chaos. With ground already soaked, major roads like the A30 face long closures.
Stay updated with National Highways at www.trafficengland.com.
