Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Storm Chandra and ongoing flooding impacts

23 February 2026 · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Proposed by Emma Hardy Lab Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice

Agriculture & Rural Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The statement discusses the impact of Storm Chandra on UK properties, particularly in Devon and Cornwall.
  • The minister highlights ongoing investments in flood resilience measures, including a 10.5 billion investment over ten years for new flood schemes.
  • Changes to flood funding policies starting April 2026 and support for internal drainage boards with 91 million are also outlined.

Issue summary

The statement discusses the impact of Storm Chandra on UK properties, particularly in Devon and Cornwall, and outlines ongoing government efforts to mitigate flooding risks.

Action requested

The minister highlights ongoing investments in flood resilience measures, including a £10.5 billion investment over ten years for new flood schemes, changes to flood funding policies starting April 2026, and support for internal drainage boards with £91 million.

Key facts

  • Storm Chandra caused flooding affecting around 401 properties in England, primarily in Devon and Cornwall.
  • The Environment Agency has protected approximately 24,500 properties across all locations.
  • A Major Incident was declared by Somerset Council on 27 January due to flooding and lifted on 18 February.
  • Government is investing at least £10.5 billion over ten years for flood defences.
  • Internal drainage boards are receiving £91 million for modernisation and upgrades.
  • The government announced £30 million for coastal adaptation pilots in East Riding of Yorkshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk.
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