Lesley Griffiths, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
I wish to update Members on the flooding of 20 and 21 November. Some reports are still being confirmed as this is an ongoing situation.
We have received reports confirming internal flooding to properties in Maesteg, Boverton, Penarth, Barry, Llanmaes and Pontllanfraith. Between 30-40mm of rain has fallen in the affected catchment areas over the period from around 2am this morning , resulting in all rivers becoming rapidly swollen. Further media reports show flooding at Pencoed, Ogmore Vale and Llantwit Major. The Vale of Glamorgan Council has opened its incident room to coordinate the ongoing response.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) are currently managing assets such as blocked culverts and clearing flood screens. As at 5pm there are 3 flood warnings covering Ewenny Village, Boverton, Pontyates, Ponthenry and Pontyberem and 14 flood alerts. NRW staff will be monitoring the situation throughout the night.
There has been widespread disruption across southern Wales with the Fire and Rescue Services having to deal with over 50 flooding incidents over the last two days. I would like to sincerely thank all of those involved from the Fire and Rescue Service, NRW and Local Authorities for the work they have done in responding to incidents in such challenging conditions.
There remains significant disruption to Cardiff Valley Lines rail services due to flooding at Llandow and at Eastbrook in the Vale of Glamorgan. Trains have been severely disrupted between Barry Island and Cardiff Central and between Bridgend and Cardiff Central and travellers should check with the operator before travelling. . There are also some cancellations to Great Western Railway services in both directions between London and South Wales due to flooding in England.
Heavy and persistent rain will continue to affect many parts of Wales through this evening. During the evening and overnight period, there will be periods of drier weather but heavy showers are also expected and likely to cause further flooding incidents on the roads around Wales.
Better conditions are expected during the day on Tuesday 22 November in many parts of Wales, with drier periods but still a few heavy showers. The area of low pressure responsible for the current wet and windy conditions is then expected to move away to the north of the UK during Tuesday night, allowing much improved conditions across Wales during the remainder of the week and weekend.
For the latest on flooding, and flood warnings in force, the Natural Resources Wales website should be checked. This also contains useful information on what you can do before, during or after a flood.
If individuals would like to speak to someone or need further advice, they should contact Floodline on 0345 9881188.
Further Local Authority investigations will take place over the coming weeks to confirm final numbers and determine the cause of flooding at each location.