Storm Bert – Update 28.11.24

Storm Bert has caused disruption, inconvenience and devastation for many of our residents. We understand the challenges that a sudden change in weather can bring, and we are working diligently to address the issues that have arisen.

Our team had put plans in place to manage the impact of the storm based on information received, but the intensity of the rain and wind exceeded expectations.

We have observed flooding in various locations across the County Borough, particularly impacting areas in the lower end of the valley and Pontsarn.

To our knowledge, over 70 properties have been affected. Our priority is to work closely with our communities to provide support and assistance during this challenging time. We are committed to addressing the aftermath of the flooding and ensuring that those affected receive the help they need.

Prior to the storm, our preparation work included:

• Road sweepers clearing leaves off gullies on all main routes.
• The clearing of as many trash screens as possible on our culverts up to a week prior to the storm.
• The gully sucker clearing the gullies in areas that we know have been problematic in recent years.  
• Regular inspections by our structural engineers and standby officers.

We also issued over 4,000 sandbags to properties that were deemed most at risk.

We are pleased to report that the extensive efforts put into improving culverts and drainage systems following Storm Dennis have proven successful during Storm Bert. The work has effectively withstood the recent weather conditions, demonstrating the council's commitment to enhancing our infrastructure for the benefit of the community. Had these improvements not been in place, the impact of Storm Bert may have been considerably worse.

Our officers are working diligently to assess and support impacted areas, while also carrying out emergency works throughout the county borough. We kindly ask commuters to be mindful of potential disruptions in the coming weeks. Your cooperation and patience are greatly appreciated as we strive to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Landslips

There were a total of four landslips in Merthyr Tydfil; two in Pontsticill, one in Pontsarn and one in Quaker’s Yard.

Quakers Yard:

The section of Cardiff Road where the landslip occurred is currently closed while we carry out repair works.

We will reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so and we anticipate works to be complete in around one week.

We would like to remind residents that the road is closed for safety reasons and people and vehicles must stay outside of the closure and not attempt to pass.

Ponsticill / Pontsarn:

The landslip sites are currently being assessed and the affected roads will remain closed until the areas can be made safe. We will provide a further update once assessments have been completed.

We understand the frustration and inconvenience caused by these road closures and subsequent traffic issues. Our top priority is the safety and well-being of the public, which is why we cannot compromise on this matter. We assure you that we are working to open the roads as quickly as possible.

Financial support

There are a number of financial support options available to residents. Please see below and for further information, click the following link: merthyr.gov.uk/storm

Local Authority Hardship Scheme

The Council is offering financial support to those affected by the flooding caused by Storm Bert.

Each affected household and business will receive £1,000.

If you haven’t already been in contact with us about water damage to your home or businesses please notify us immediately via the following link, where you can also apply for the grant: merthyr.gov.uk/do-it-online/request-or-apply/storm/

Welsh Government Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF)

If your property has been affected by the recent floods, you may be entitled to a Discretionary Assistance Fund grant from Welsh Government.

The Discretionary Assistance Fund provides 2 types of grants that you do not need to pay back.

⚠ Emergency Assistance Payment (EAP)

A grant which helps people who are in financial need because they have experienced an emergency, a crisis or a disaster.

⚠ Individual Assistance Payment (IAP)

A grant which helps vulnerable people with the purchase ‘white goods’. These applications must be supported by the local authority. 

Further information can be found on Welsh Government’s website.

Additional Welsh Government funding

On Tuesday Welsh Government announced that they will fund local authorities to provide grants of £1000 for households without insurance cover, or £500 to affected households with existing insurance cover. 

We will share more information on this when we have it.

In addition to this, the Council is also offering the below support:

• We have set up a support Hub at Aberfan & Merthyr Vale Community Centre café for people to access information and advice during this recovery period;
• We are offering free bulky item collections for anyone affected by the flooding;
• We’ve got teams out offering support, with people knocking doors in the areas worst affected.  

If you haven’t already been in contact with us about water damage to your home or businesses please notify us immediately via the following link: merthyr.gov.uk/do-it-online/request-or-apply/storm/ or call us on 01685 725000.

We will continue to provide updates as and when they are available.