Natural Resources Wales is asking people to be prepared for the possibility of localised flooding as the next band of heavy rainfall approaches.
Latest forecasts show persistent and intense rainfall is expected to reach Wales early tomorrow morning, continuing through to Tuesday, Christmas Eve.
While most parts of Wales will experience heavy rainfall at some point during the day, the worst affected areas are expected to be across the whole of south Wales, west and mid Wales.
Following prolonged periods of heavy rainfall earlier this week, ground remains saturated, meaning that further rainfall will quickly find its way into rivers and streams.
This is likely to lead to more Flood Alerts and Flood Warnings being issued across Wales in coming days.
There is also a risk that leaves and other debris, brought down by strong winds, will block drains causing flooding of road surfaces.
People travelling to see family over Christmas are advised to allow extra time as driving conditions may be difficult.
People are advised to keep an eye on local news and weather forecasts for news of any disruption in their area, and are reminded of the dangers of driving through flood water.
Officers from Natural Resources Wales are will be monitoring forecasts closely over the coming days.
Teams are out this weekend checking that flood defences are in good working order and that rivers are clear of debris which could restrict river flows.
For the latest on flood warnings visit www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk/alerts or follow @natreswales on Twitter.
People can find out if they are at risk of flooding, or if they can sign up for free flood warnings by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188.
Notes to Editors:
Press office: 029 2046 4227 / pressoffice@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk (24hrs)
Natural Resources Wales is a Welsh Government Sponsored Body. Its purpose is to ensure that the natural resources of Wales are sustainably maintained, enhanced and used, now and in the future
· For more information www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk
From: Press Office, Incident
Sent: 19 December 2013 13:06
Subject: Natural Resources Wales: Flood forecast statement – update
FFS/12/JW Date: 19/12/2013
Flood forecast update: 19/12/2013 13:00
Following heavy rainfall and stormy conditions which affected many parts of Wales yesterday evening, Natural Resources Wales is asking people to remain vigilant as further heavy rainfall is forecast over the coming week.
Forecasts indicate that a second band of persistent rainfall will reach Wales Friday afternoon, continuing through into Saturday.
It is forecast to affect most parts of Wales, but likely to be heaviest across south Wales, especially the Brecon Beacons and the South Wales Valleys.
A number of warnings have been removed this morning, but with ground saturated, further rainfall will quickly find its way into rivers, meaning that further Flood Alerts and Warnings are likely to be issued.
Surface water affected roads in many places across Wales yesterday evening, and as leaves continue to block drains this is likely to cause further problems.
Natural Resources Wales is warning about the dangers of driving through flood water and urges motorists to take extra precautions when travelling.
The forecast remains very unsettled continuing into next week, with another weather system forecast for Monday, and Christmas day, both bringing more wind and rain.
Officers will be monitoring forecasts and weather conditions closely, as well as checking flood defences and making sure rivers are clear of blockages which could obstruct flows and cause flooding.
Flood warnings are updated every 15 minutes at www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk/alerts