The Met Office has escalated weather warnings to amber as Storm Claudia prepares to unleash torrential rain and powerful gusts across parts of the UK, with Wales expected to bear the brunt on Friday and Saturday.
Immediate Impacts and Disruptions
Caerphilly Council has confirmed the closure of Idris Davies School for all pupils aged three to 18 on Friday, November 14. A statement from the council explained the decision, citing that recent flooding has already impacted the school site and local access routes, with conditions forecast to deteriorate further. The proactive closure follows a full risk assessment to ensure the safety of both students and staff.
Furthermore, the council has advised all schools in the area to prepare for potential disruption, including the possibility of early dismissal if the situation worsens. This localised action is part of a broader response to the impending storm.
Widespread Closures and Official Warnings
Other local authorities are taking similar preventative measures. Rhondda Cynon Taff Council has announced a series of closures affecting public services. Key disruptions include the closure of all grass pitches, the Ynysangharad War Memorial Park from 12pm on Friday, and the Treforest Community Recycling Centre from the same time. Several car parks will also be closed or require vehicles to be vacated by specified times.
The Met Office's amber warning for rain covers southern and central parts of England and Wales, active from 6am on Friday. Meteorologists have issued a stark alert, indicating that some regions could see up to a month's worth of rainfall within a 24-hour period. Met Office chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert stated that some areas within the amber zone could see in excess of 150mm of rain, with 60-80mm falling quite widely.
Flood Alerts and Travel Hazards
In response to the forecast, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has activated over 20 flood alerts. The agency has specified that flooding is expected in several council areas, including Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taff, and Torfaen. A broader area has been flagged where flooding is possible.
BBC Wales weather presenter Derek Brockway cautioned that the heaviest rainfall will be on eastern-facing hills, causing rivers to rise rapidly and increasing the flood threat. In addition to the rain, gales of 50 to 70mph are forecast for north-west Wales and Cardigan Bay.
The AA has urged the public to avoid travelling in the hazardous conditions. The motoring organisation strongly advised against driving through flood water, warning that even shallow water can be dangerous. They emphasised that safety must come first and recommended that travellers stay updated on the latest weather developments.
Storm Claudia, named by Spain's meteorological service due to its impact on the Canary Islands, is set to be a significant weather event for the UK, testing flood defences and disrupting daily life.
