Over 500 homes were flooded across England and Wales as a result of Storm Bert, with meteorologists issuing additional severe weather warnings for rain in southern Britain.
First Minister Eluned Morgan reported 400 homes, along with commercial buildings and vital infrastructure, had been affected in Wales.
Members of the public have expressed how flood warnings were insufficient and an investigation has since been launched to investigate why.
The increased intensity and frequency of extreme rainfall have contributed to the severity of the flooding and has been linked to climate change.
The World Weather Attribution has said similar events are likely to increase across Europe as a result of the rapidly warming climate.
To assist those affected, the Welsh government has offered grants of £500 to all impacted households, with £1,000 available for those without insurance. Since 2021, the Welsh Government has allocated nearly £300 million to risk management authorities for investment in flood risk management.
A University of Edinburgh student from Pontypridd, a town in wales, commented:
“It’s stressful being away from home while an extreme weather event is unfolding, but I’m fortunate that my family lives on higher ground. I feel for the people on Sion Street, beside the River Taff, who have had their homes flooded for the second time in five years, especially so close to Christmas.”
She added that it was “a shock to see Pontypridd on the national news” and expressed disappointment that it was for such a “devastating reason”.
“Flooded Car Park” by russellstreet is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.