A major incident has been declared by South Wales Police following a severe flooding incident in the area. Text below – South Wales Police via @danwnews.
Whilst river levels slowly subside across Wales, standing water and damage still means conditions are dangerous in this area and pose a risk to life. The earlier Met Office “Red” warning has recently lifted, however Amber warnings remain in force until 3pm.
Concerns are also growing over the risk of landslides in the area, due to destabilization of the ground from recent flood waters. Up to 150mm (6″) of rain has fallen in the South Wales area, totals particularly high over the Brecon Beacons area, the flowing of this water means ground is particularly unstable and there is a risk of further isolated landslides throughout the day. This image was captured by Matthew Gauvain earlier today between Tylorstown & Ferndale, in the Rhondda Valley.
The Rivers Taff and Neath, which burst their banks following torrential rainfall overnight, remain high however are beginning to retreat. (Image below: river levels starting to decline in Pontypridd: Natural Resources Wales).
Elsewhere across England and Wales, various Met Office Amber warnings remain in force. Those across Wales & Northern England are valid up until 3pm this afternoon, however concerns are increasing across South Eastern parts of England, and the associated Amber here is valid up until 6pm this evening. Rainfall is still falling in the South and South East, and river levels are rising. Here are some key points stated by the Met Office regarding the Amber warning in the South East:
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Homes and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
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Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life
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Delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are likely
Severe Flood Warnings
The Environment Agency have issued 4 Severe Flood Warnings, meaning there is a immediate danger and risk to life. These are in force for:
There are a very high number of flood warnings and alerts in force for other areas, see more here. Heavy rain is forecast to continue across the South East for several hours yet, meaning concerns will begin to grow in these areas. Please remember to stay safe during this severe weather event, and do not drive into flood waters more than a couple of inches deep.