'It's quite harrowing', people in Pontypridd frustrated following recent floods

After the floods in South Wales from Storm Bert, residents in Pontypridd say they feel frustrated

Paula lives in Pontypridd - her property's been badly affected by flood water.
Author: George SymondsPublished 25th Nov 2024
Last updated 25th Nov 2024

Following the floods in South Wales, residents in Pontypridd say they feel frustrated.

Paula Williams is one of the people whose homes on Sion Street, Pontypridd, flooded.

She told us:

"It's quite harrowing again after 2020, we just didn't know how bad it was going to be.

"But at least during the day we had a chance to get more equipment and more people down here, so we were on top of things this time."

"We still lost stuff, but at least it's not as bad as 2020.

"We're just frustrated and angry...

....that once again we've been let down by the authorities that are supposed to, not necessarily stop everything like this, but at least help alleviate the problem.

"But they've done nothing since 2020."

Paula, like many residents, have had their cars and belongings damaged from the flood

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 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.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.