Stark footage of flooded Britain as we battle Storm Claudia and main incident declared
UK villages have been left underwater after Storm Claudia sparked widespread flooding. Rescues and evacuations are now underway in Wales as emergency services and locals battle the horror which has been declared a major incident.
Fire crews, ambulance services and mountain rescue have been working to carry out rescues and evacuations. Flooding has also hit part of the West Midlands, while the UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow alert for cold weather for large parts of the country. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service declared the major incident at 1.30am this morning in Monmouth after severe and widespread flooding.
Authorities worked alongside Gwent Police, the Welsh Ambulance Service, lifeboat and mountain rescue, the coastguard and neighbouring fire and rescue services. Area Manager Matt Jones said: “This is a large-scale incident, and our crews and partners have been working tirelessly through the night and into today to help those affected.
“I want to thank everyone involved for the professionalism and care they continue to show in very difficult circumstances. I would urge the public to avoid the Monmouth area completely.
“The flooding is significant, and we need to keep routes clear to allow emergency services to reach the people who need us most. If you are in immediate danger with threat to life or property, or need urgent assistance, please call 999.”
As of 6am, Natural Resources Wales has issued four severe flood warnings. This means a “significant risk to life and significant disruption to the community is expected”.
The warnings are in effect along the River Monnow in Skenfrith, Osbaston and Over Monnow, as well as the River Wye at Monmouth. Monmouthshire County Council has urged residents to avoid travelling.
A yellow alert for cold weather has also been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The alert is in place from 8am on Monday, November 17, until 8am on Friday, November 21.
As of 11:55am, there are 58 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 150 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, said the agency. It added 20 properties have flooded as a result of Storm Claudia, including some in Cumbria affected by earlier rainfall.
