FLOODING has wreaked havoc across large areas of Wales following relentless rainfall overnight and into this morning. Weather warnings remain in place, and numerous roads have been closed due to hazardous conditions. Affected residents and motorists are urged to stay informed and avoid travel where possible.
TRANSPORT CHAOS
A railway line in the Cynon Valley has been submerged, with images showing Cwmbach train station entirely underwater. Severe flooding has also been reported in the Rhondda, Pontypridd, Blackwood, and Ebbw Vale. Roads across the region, including the A465 and sections of the A5 and A494, are impassable, with diversions causing significant delays.
COMMUNITIES HIT HARD
Residents on Sion Street, Pontypridd, face some of the worst conditions. Photos show householders using buckets and bins to bail out floodwater, as emergency services work tirelessly to assist. Berw Road, also in Pontypridd, has seen similar devastation, with businesses and homes overwhelmed by water. Cardiff’s Bute Park has been closed due to the risk of flooding.
In Blackwood, the local rugby club and surrounding areas are submerged, leaving vehicles stranded. A restaurant in the town, Bistro 8, remains closed due to rising waters.
MAJOR INCIDENTS DECLARED
Rhondda Cynon Taf council has declared a major incident, citing “significant flooding” across the area. Emergency centres have been opened, and sandbags distributed to mitigate further damage. Merthyr Tydfil council also reported several inaccessible roads and is providing evacuation centres for affected residents.
TRAGIC LOSS AND RESCUES
In England, a man in his 60s tragically lost his life after a tree fell on his car during Storm Bert. Meanwhile, in Trefriw, north Wales, a man remains missing after going running with his dog as floodwaters rose. Emergency services have located the dog but continue to search for the man.
WEATHER WARNINGS AND ADVICE
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for heavy rain, covering areas including Cardiff, Swansea, and Powys. Earlier warnings for strong winds have been lifted. Natural Resources Wales reports nearly 50 flood warnings and 60 flood alerts across the country.
Residents are urged to prepare by following flood preparedness advice, which includes having sandbags ready and signing up for weather updates. Affected train services have been replaced with buses, and delays are expected to continue.
CALLS FOR ACTION
Plaid Cymru MS Heledd Fychan has called for more action to prevent recurring flooding, pointing to lessons unlearned from the devastating floods of 2020 during Storms Ciara and Dennis. She pledged ongoing support for affected communities and promised to campaign for better flood defences in the Senedd.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Gwent Police, alongside emergency services and local councils, have warned against unnecessary travel and advised against driving through floodwaters. Residents are reminded to report floods to their local councils and to dial 999 in emergencies.
A Welsh Government Spokesperson said: “It has been an exceptionally difficult and disruptive weekend across many parts of Wales which have been impacted by Storm Bert. All our thoughts are with those who have suffered flooding to their homes and businesses. The trauma and upset this causes should never be underestimated.
“Our emergency services and local authorities have worked tirelessly to support those affected, working in extremely difficult circumstances, and we thank them all for their ongoing efforts.
“The Deputy First Minister has been visiting some of the worst affected areas and speaking to local people and first responders, Emergency services, local authorities and Natural Resources Wales.
“Given the scale of the impact, it will be vital that people continue to take extra care over the coming days and follow official advice. As the focus moves to recovery, it is important that those affected receive ongoing support and we will play our part alongside our partners in delivering that.
“Despite the significant impacts, it appears that flood defences played a role in protecting many homes and businesses, and we will continue our investment programme to make communities even more resilient to severe weather events in future.”
