PROPERTIES in the town of Monmouth remain at immediate risk of flooding as its banks were “undefended” as the river rose to an unprecedented level.
Natural Resources Wales issued a red flood warning, and a yellow flood alert for the River Wye yesterday, January 7, saying that homes will flood due to the river banks being undefended, and so “immediate action” is required.
NRW updated their initial statement this morning, on January 8, a spokesperson said the following: “River levels are steady. Flooding to property is expected. Flooding of low-lying land and roads is ongoing. The rowing club underpass gates have been closed.
“We will continue to monitor the situation. This message will be updated as the situation changes.”
The flood warning and flood alert remain in place, though river levels are now steady.
For those living in flood risk areas, it is important to move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwater, as the water can be deceptively deep and fast-moving.
Having an emergency kit with essentials, such as food, water, and a flashlight, can be crucial.
Properties can be prepared by putting sandbags on doorways, windows and other entry points, and by moving furniture upstairs.
NRW advise to “turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it is safe to do so and put flood protection equipment in place.”
For immediate flood help, you can call the NRW floodline on 0345 988 1188.
To check the flood risk in your area, or if there are any flood alerts, you can visit the NRW website, here: https://flood-warning.naturalresources.wales/.