Emergency Services are continuing to deal with incidents linked to the adverse weather conditions overnight and throughout this morning across south Wales.
Police and fire and rescue officers, and many more skilled workers from a raft of partner organisations, have been and will continue to work together to ensure the safety of those directly affected by flooding and landslides.
Hundreds of houses have been checked and searched by fire and rescue officers, and hundreds of people have been rescued from their homes. They have been looked after at one of seven rescue centres which have been set up by local authorities across Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil.
The most severe impact was upon Rhondda Cynon Taff, and more specifically the Taff valley, which experienced multiple floods and landslides.
Water levels are subsiding, but South Wales Police continues to liaise with organisations such as the Met Office and Natural Resources Wales to monitor the ongoing situation.
Public warnings and alerts remain in place – whilst the situation across the region shows signs of improvement, there is no room for complacency, so any road closures and safety advice must be adhered to and respected.
Emergency services are still dealing with incidents and the public are urged to monitor local news and social media sources for specific advice.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Gilmer, said: “It’s vitally important that people still follow safety advice. Whilst things may appear to be getting better, there is still a serious risk to people and property.
“The disruption has been significant and over the next few days there will be many people who are left dealing with the aftermath of what has been a devastating storm. I would like to thank them for the cooperation they have shown, and I would like to reassure them all, that our work will continue until we are satisfied that people are no longer at risk.
“I would also like to thank all those involved in this multi-agency response for their dedication and professionalism in what have been very challenging conditions.”
Public advice for people in affected areas:
- Remain indoors, unless your journey is absolutely necessary.
- Steer well clear of dangers such as waterways.
- In an emergency, dial 999 – let highly skilled emergency service and rescue staff deal with incidents safely.
- Monitor local media and social media accounts for relevant organisations for updates.
