Tropiquaria Zoo in Watchet, Somerset, is relieved to reopen after severe flooding caused by Storm Chandra impacted the site earlier this week. The storm battered the South West of England, leading to widespread flooding, road closures, school shutdowns, and trapped motorists, prompting authorities to declare a major incident still ongoing as of Friday, January 30.
The zoo, which features a reptile house, aquarium, nocturnal house, and enclosures for species like wallabies, tortoises, and meerkats, experienced water infiltration throughout its grounds. Notably, water entered the main building and reached the underground aquarium, necessitating the use of pumps to remove floodwaters.
While the zoo was already closed due to its January schedule (open only on weekends and Mondays), it plans to reopen Saturday, January 30, and expand to seven-day operations after a successful cleanup effort. Chris Moiser, the zoo’s director, explained that flooding occurred primarily due to the age of the main building, constructed in 1933, which left the underground aquarium vulnerable.
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Images from the zoo show the outdoor playground’s two pirate ships, usually resting on sand, seemingly floating on the floodwater—a striking visual of the unusual impact of the storm. The wallaby enclosure was also significantly affected, with approximately two-thirds of its space submerged. Fortunately, the wallabies instinctively relocated to higher ground, avoiding harm.
Despite the extent of the flooding, Moiser emphasized the resilience of the zoo and its team. “It could have been much worse,” he said. “The pirate ships are dry again, and there is no permanent damage. Our staff worked tirelessly and really look after each other—we have the best team here.”
On social media, Tropiquaria Zoo shared early insights into the event: “We did flood overnight in ways we haven’t before. It’s the first time in 18 years we’ve seen the pirate ships actually in water! Thankfully, all the animals appear safe, though maintenance has been delayed. We will assess any further work needed once the site has dried out.”
Elsewhere in Somerset, the impact of Storm Chandra forced a business in Ruishton to relocate after floodwaters reached chest height. Over 50 properties across the county experienced flooding, as confirmed by Bill Revans, leader of Somerset Council, who noted the extraordinary volume of rain—over 50mm—fell on already saturated ground.
A new Met Office warning for rain covers the South West for the following Monday and Tuesday, with the risk of further flooding for homes and businesses in parts of Somerset.