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The Met Office has issued a series of weather warnings for wind and rain this weekend as Storm Darragh hits.
An amber warning is in place for strong winds on Saturday December 7, while there’s a yellow warning for rain on Friday and Saturday.
There will also be a yellow warning for wind on Sunday. A red warning has been issued for coastal areas of Wales.
What are amber and yellow weather warnings?
Yellow Warning: Yellow warnings can be issued for a range of weather situations. Many are issued when it is likely that the weather will cause some low level impacts, including some disruption to travel in a few places. Many people may be able to continue with their daily routine, but there will be some that will be directly impacted and so it is important to assess if you could be affected. Other yellow warnings are issued when the weather could bring much more severe impacts to the majority of people but the certainty of those impacts occurring is much lower. It is important to read the content of yellow warnings to determine which weather situation is being covered by the yellow warning.
Amber Warning: There is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, which could potentially disrupt your plans. This means there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property. You should think about changing your plans and taking action to protect yourself and your property. You may want to consider the impact of the weather on your family and your community and whether there is anything you need to do ahead of the severe weather to minimise the impact.
Red Warning: Dangerous weather is expected and, if you haven’t already done so, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather. It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure. You should avoid travelling, where possible, and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.
Source: Met Office
Storm Darragh comes just a fortnight after Storm Bert, which caused flooding in places across Caerphilly County Borough, including Bedwas, Blackwood, Cross Keys, Llanbradach, Machen, Risca, Ystrad Mynach, and more.
In a statement, Caerphilly County Borough Council said it has sent crews to clear drains, gullies, gratings, and culverts to prepare for the bad weather.
“This proactive work is detecting and clearing blockages and debris, to reduce the risk of local flooding,” the authority said.
“Officers continue to monitor the changing weather warnings, and we have crews on standby for more potential disruption over the weekend.
“Residents with floodgates should consider using them as a precaution.”
Bargoed winter fair, which was due to be held on Saturday, has been cancelled due to the weather, as has Santa’s Friday visit to Rhymney Library.
Be vigilant and prepared
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is asking people to be vigilant and prepared this weekend as heavy rainfall and potentially damaging winds from Storm Darragh are set to have significant impacts in Wales.
While most of Wales will see heavy rainfall and could see flood impacts, significant flooding is possible in areas of south Wales tomorrow and into Sunday.
While rainfall totals are not expected to be as high as those experienced during Storm Bert, further heavy rain experienced in Wales this week means the ground is very saturated and rivers could rise quickly. Some rivers will also contain debris yet to be removed following Storm Bert which could heighten flood risk.
All of NRW’s visitor centres, woodlands, trails and car parks will be closed on Saturday due to the risk to public safety.
While coastal flood impacts are not currently expected, NRW is urging people to remain vigilant. Keep away from seafronts and promenades due to the risks posed by the expected large waves triggered by the storm force winds.
People are being urged to consider any steps they may need to take now to be prepared.
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