Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is set to review the warnings issued for Storm Bert after the severe flooding in south Wales.
A major incident was declared in the Rhondda Cynon Taf region on Sunday, affecting between 200 and 300 properties.
Local council leader Andrew Morgan expressed his disbelief that only a yellow weather warning was issued, given the storm’s intensity.
The weather conditions were far worse than anticipated, prompting urgent questions about the effectiveness of the warnings and the flood alert systems.
Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan described the weekend’s events as “absolutely devastating,” particularly with the timing just before Christmas.
Residents were left to cope with the aftermath of the storm, which left homes flooded and widespread damage.
Sian Williams, NRW’s head of operations, acknowledged that reviews of the event will take place over the coming days, with the agency investigating whether data collection and river level triggers were set appropriately.
Key flood concerns raised by local leaders in Wales.Concerns have been raised that some communities did not receive enough warning, and NRW is committed to examining any possible shortcomings.
Despite issuing flood warnings before the storm, NRW emphasized that managing flood risks in the River Taff area remains complex.
Sally Davies, duty tactical manager for NRW, explained that heavy rainfall of up to 160mm caused the River Taff to rise dramatically, putting the region under significant strain.
She highlighted that while efforts are ongoing to review flood risks in the area, solutions are challenging due to the steep landscape and the presence of existing developments in flood-prone areas.
One of the residents, John Morgan, who manages the Rheola pub in Porth, expressed frustration with NRW’s approach to waterway maintenance.
His pub has flooded multiple times in recent years, and he believes the lack of dredging has contributed to the ongoing issues.
He urged for stronger flood defenses, such as river dredging and the construction of flood barriers, to protect the community.
Thankfully, the rain has largely subsided, and flood warnings are expected to ease.
However, with ongoing concerns about flood risk management, the community’s recovery and long-term protection from flooding remain a key priority.