Storm Bert leaves chaos and destruction across Wales and UK

The UK was left reeling over the weekend as Storm Bert unleashed torrential rain and ferocious winds of up to 80mph, wreaking havoc across Wales, Scotland, England and Northern Ireland.

South Wales saw catastrophic disruption, with towns like Pontypridd bearing the full force of the River Taff. Residents were frantically bailing water from their homes to stave off flooding. A major incident was declared by local authorities, prompting ‘boil water’ notices to be issued amid the chaos.

Tragic reports confirm that five lives have been lost, including that of 75-year-old Brian Perry, whose body was found in the River Conwy near Trefriw.

As flood warnings persist across much of the UK – with some 150 flood warnings still in place -, emergency services face significant challenges, navigating disrupted roads and debris while responding to the urgent needs of affected communities.

Welsh Gov commend emergency services and flood defences

The Welsh Government have issued a statement commending emergency services and the flood defences they feel played a role in protecting many homes across affected areas. A Welsh Government Spokesperson said:

“It has been an exceptionally difficult and disruptive weekend across many parts of Wales which have been impacted by Storm Bert. All our thoughts are with those who have suffered flooding to their homes and businesses. The trauma and upset this causes should never be underestimated.

“Our emergency services and local authorities have worked tirelessly to support those affected, working in extremely difficult circumstances, and we thank them all for their ongoing efforts.

“The Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, has been visiting some of the worst affected areas and speaking to local people and first responders, Emergency services, local authorities and Natural Resources Wales.

“Given the scale of the impact, it will be vital that people continue to take extra care over the coming days and follow official advice. As the focus moves to recovery, it is important that those affected receive ongoing support and we will play our part alongside our partners in delivering that.

“Despite the significant impacts, it appears that flood defences played a role in protecting many homes and businesses, and we will continue our investment programme to make communities even more resilient to severe weather events in future.”

Greenpeace and the ‘Climate Emergency’

However, Greenpeace have warned that the UK is now facing the climate crisis and what it looks like.

Aakash Naik, head of Greenpeace UK’s climate justice campaign, said: “We’ve watched with horror as extreme weather has ripped through Florida, Spain and the Philippines. Storm Bert is a clear reminder that the UK is not immune from climate crises and extreme weather.

“But there are families around the country who’ve suffered terrible, tragic losses – with homes wrecked by floods, or in the worst instances losing someone dear to them.

“This weather isn’t bad luck – this is what the climate crisis looks like. And it’s caused by oil and gas companies like Shell, who made over £4bn in profit in the last few months alone. They can afford to pay for the damages that they have helped cause.

“Fossil fuel companies should have to pay up for this climate destruction – and not ordinary UK households. It’s based on a simple common sense principle. If you make a mess you should clean it up. Or if you break something, you should fix it.”

Pics: (courtesy of our BBC LDRS Partners)

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