Pontypridd Bookshop Owner Vigilant as Flood Risks Persist Following Storm Dennis Devastation

Jeff Baxter, the owner of a bookshop in Pontypridd, is constantly monitoring river levels online due to the risk of flooding. His shop, Storyville Books, is situated near the River Rhondda, which flooded the entire street during Storm Dennis in February 2020.

The flooding severely impacted local businesses, forcing many to relocate. The experience has left Jeff particularly concerned about the potential for future floods, prompting him to frequently check river data in anticipation of heavy rains.

Storm Dennis was a significant event, marking the worst flooding in a generation for the area. It affected numerous homes and businesses in Pontypridd, especially along Mill Street, where many enterprises had to close down or move.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is advising people to sign up for their flood alert system, which could give businesses and residents the chance to prepare ahead of future storms and minimize damage. Jeff’s concerns are shared by many, as flooding remains a persistent risk in the area.

NRW warns that one in seven homes in Wales is at risk of flooding, with this risk potentially increasing by 30% over the next century due to climate change. The flood alert system offers a way to track river levels and provides early warnings to help people prepare.

Data from around 400 NRW monitoring stations across Wales help predict flood risks by measuring the water’s depth and flow. Signing up for these alerts could be crucial for residents and business owners alike.

Andy Wall, a flood risk manager at NRW, highlighted that despite all the systems in place, there are limited ways to fully prevent floodwaters from entering buildings.

He emphasized that tools like sandbags and floodgates can help if used properly, but the risks of flooding, especially with increasingly severe weather patterns, remain high. Last year saw a record number of storms and flood warnings, underscoring the growing challenges posed by climate change and more intense rainfall.

Clwb Y Bont, a volunteer-run club in Pontypridd, is one of many organizations to take proactive steps after being damaged by the 2020 floods. The club has installed flood barriers and signed up for flood alerts, ensuring that it can respond quickly to any warnings.

The club’s former chairman, Wil Morus Jones, stressed the importance of these measures to protect both the building and outdoor facilities. Preparing in advance, such as moving furniture to higher ground, is essential in minimizing the damage in case of another flood.