London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Storm Bert has caused severe flooding across the UK, with severe flooding in south Wales, and three reported fatalities. The storm has led to widespread power outages and significant travel disruptions.
Storm Bert triggers major flooding across the UK as heavy rain and melting snow prompt a critical response in south Wales.
Emergency declared in Rhondda Cynon Taf as rising floodwaters impact Pontypridd, Ebbw Vale, and Aberdare.
Homes near Sion Street in Pontypridd were flooded as the River Taff burst its banks, forcing business closures on Mill Street. Residents used buckets to pump water as firefighters worked tirelessly to drain the flooded streets.
Emergency rest areas have been set up at Pontypridd Library, Ystrad Sports Centre, and Sobell Leisure Centre for those affected by the flooding.
Over the past 24 hours, rainfall has exceeded 130mm in some areas, and wind gusts have reached over 75mph in exposed regions.
Council reports over 100 properties affected
The spokesperson from the council said,
“Throughout the evening, the severity of the weather has resulted in widespread impact with over 100 properties potentially flooded, both commercial and residential.”
“Council assets have also been damaged, with Lido Ponty, Park and Dare theatre and a number of schools impacted. Impacted schools will send out direct communications to families to make them aware.”
“There are a number of highways closures, with a landslip on the Bwlch Mountain Road at Nantymoel closing this road, and South Wales police closing bridges in Pontypridd. The advice to everyone is only travel if absolutely necessary.”
Pontypridd Park Flooded
The Pontypridd Parkrun Facebook page posted,
“Our park has been flooded again. Whilst we do not know the full extent of any damage yet, initial pictures do not look good.”
Chris Bryant expresses shock over unprecedented flooding
Chris Bryant, the MP for Rhondda and Ogmore stated,
“I am deeply saddened to witness the devastation caused by last night’s storm and the severe flooding across our communities. The flooding across areas in the Rhondda and Ogmore is unprecedented. I have never seen it on this scale before.”
“My team and I are working tirelessly to support those impacted, and I want to assure everyone that the Rhondda Cynon Taf county borough council, Bridgend county borough council, and Dŵr Cymru teams are doing everything in their power to respond to this crisis.”
Met Office issues warnings
Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Andy Page said,
“Impacts from Storm Bert will continue to cause disruption as we go through today, and multiple warnings are in place for wind and rain.”
“While the risk of any snowfall has now diminished, rainfall will affect much of the UK today, in particular some southwestern parts of England and South Wales, but the heaviest rain will ease from these areas through the day.”
“The strong southerly winds continue today and warnings are in place for central, southern and eastern England, Northern Ireland and western Scotland where gusts could peak at 60 mph and could even reach more than 70 mph along some exposed coasts.”
“Warnings could still be amended, possibly at short notice, so it is important people keep up to date with the very latest forecast.”
National Highways issues Storm Bert travel tips
Mark Nash, National Network Manager at National Highways stated,
“With Storm Bert it is important to plan ahead for your journey, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.”
He added,
“A section of our website provides practical advice for travelling in storms, high winds and gales. It’s also a good idea for people to remember TRIP – Top-up your vehicle; Rest every two hours, Inspect tyres and lights and Prepare for the journey ahead.”
North Wales Police Thanks agencies and community
According to Ch Insp Simon Kneale of North Wales Police,
“I would like to thank the efforts of all agencies involved in the searches in very difficult conditions and for the local community who supported the teams in the area. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”
Further, the North Wales police confirmed on Sunday afternoon that a body was found in the search for 75-year-old Brian Perry, who went missing in the River Conwy on Saturday.