News

Live weather updates across Pembrokeshire

Published

8 years ago

October 16, 2017

WINDS of up to 80mph are expected to batter Pembrokeshire and cause ‘significant impact’ as Storm Ophelia hits later today (Oct 16).

7pm – Cleddau Bridge open to cars

It is still closed to high-sided vehicles.

6:01pm – Lock gate floating in Milford Haven Port

“As a result of the severe weather today – with winds gusting up to 87mph at the entrance to the Port – we have suffered some infrastructure damage to one of the lock gates in Milford Marina. One of the mitre gates, which are the first gates you come to when entering the lock at Milford Marina, has broken off its hinges and is currently floating in the lock. As soon as the weather improves we will be making efforts to secure it.”

5:31pm – Warning to stay away from Newgale

Authorities have asked that people do not attempt to walk or drive through Newgale.

5:22pm – Reports of heavy traffic at Carew

Expect long delays as traffic is diverted from the Cleddau Bridge.

5:01pm – Trees down and power cuts across county

Tree down in road near Picton Castle towards Millin
Tree down llanycefn between Nant y Cwn School & Five ways junction
Tree down in road between Hasguard Cross and Talbenny near Greenacres
Trees down on road through Stackpole Woods
Western Power showing 9 power ‘incidents’ in Pembs & 341 properties affected

4:40pm – Newgale closed

A487 expected to be closed at Newgale for some time due to water and shingle on the road. High tide not due for another 30 minutes.

The trees that were down on the A487 between Mathry and Square and Compass and another near Castlemorris Feeds between Letterston and Castlemorris have been cleared so the Newgale diversion route is currently clear.

Western Power showing five power ‘incidents’ in Pembrokeshire and 371 properties affected.

Trees down in the following locations:

• Stokes Avenue, Haverfordwest
• Rhoose Ferry Road, Burton
• tree partially blocking road at Castle Lane, Carew.

3:40pm – Reports of tiles flying off roofs

Reported cases in Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, Tenby and Neyland.

3:10pm – Update from Pembrokeshire County Council

Cleddau Bridge now closed to all traffic. Road crews at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

Western Power showing 4 power ‘incidents’ in Pembs with a total of 600 properties affected.

Power line blocking road between Sardis and Hill Mountain. Road closure requested by police. Western power en route

Tree down (not on road) at Honeyborough Green, Neyland
Tree down blocking pathway at the Millpond, Pembroke
Tree down blocking road outside Herbranston Haall, Herbranston
Tree down on road between Strumble Head and Goodwick, exact location unconfirmed
Tree partially blocking road between Crundale & Clarbeston road
Tree blocking road at Milletts Hill, Cosheston
Tree blocking road Spittal Tunnel towards Spittal
Tree blocking road in Rectory Road, Llangwm
Tree down blocking both lanes of the A487 St Davids – Fishguard road between Mathry and square & Compass
Tree down blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite

Large section of roof from a 3 storey building at Ocean drive, Pennar

Tiles being blown off buildings in Nelson Street, Pennar, also Stranraer Road and Gays Lane Pennar

All Day Centres and Social Activity Centres closed.

All schools in Pembrokeshire closed.

The high tide this afternoon is approx. 16:50. Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.
Crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road.

Other beaches also being monitored.

Reports of numerous Portugese Men of War washed up on beaches in the South of the County – public advised not to touch.

2:30pm – Cleddau Bridge closed to ALL vehicles

Avoid area if possible.

2:22pm – Update from Pembrokeshire County Council

Approx 200 properties without power in the Eglwyswrw area, including the school which has had to close.

Tree partially blocking road between Crundale & Clarbeston road
Tree blocking road at Milletts Hill, Cosheston
Tree blocking road Spittal Tunnel towards Spittal
Tree down blocking both lanes of the A487 St Davids – Fishguard road between Mathry and square & Compass
One tree down blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite
Tiles being blown off buildings in Nelson Street, Pennar

All Day Centres and Social Activity Centres closed.

All schools in Pembrokeshire closed.

Cleddau Bridge now closed to high sided vehicles. Wind direction still from SSW & not likely to cause a full closure until it shifts more to the W. Road crews will be based at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

The high tide this afternoon is approx. 16:50. Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.

Crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road.

Other beaches also being monitored.

2:04pm – Pembrokeshire College closing early

Will re-open tomorrow as normal.

1:48pm – Trees down around county

Tree down Scarrowscant Lane, Haverfordwest (not on road)
Tree down partially blocking Hakin Bridge, Milford Haven
Tree down B4374 between Princess Gate and Tavernspite
Tree down Bower Hill between Hundleton and Monkton

1:40pm – Carew Castle closed

Scheduled to re-open tomorrow.

1:29pm – ALL Pembrokeshire schools now closing, Council say

“ALL Pembrokeshire Schools are now closing!

“School transport has been arranged for those pupils that require it.

“Please arrange to collect your child as soon as possible. Please note all children will be supervised until they are collected.”

1:07pm – More school closures
Ysgol Llanychllwydog – Gwaun Valley – closing at 1.30pm
Ysgol Hafan y Môr – closing at 2pm.

1:05pm – Milford Haven Town Council meeting cancelled

The meeting will now take place on a new date.

1pm – Tree down on Tavernspite road near Princes Gate

12:40pm – Cleddau Bridge advice from Pembrokeshire County Council

“To plan any journeys for the remainder of the day, the anticipated status of the bridge – given current information – is as follows:

bridge closed to high sided and potentially all vehicles from 1230 pm onwards today (Monday, 16^th October). This is highly dependent upon wind direction as well as wind speed An unusual situation could occur of the bridge being closed to all traffic without any intermediate closure to high sided vehicles.
any closure is expected to last until around 5 pm when the bridge may open again to cars only. Full opening of the bridge to all traffic is not expected until around 9 pm.
given that the disruption is likely to extend into the peak commuter time this evening, we advise road users to monitor the situation carefully and adjust travel plans accordingly.
the above information is based on current information and experience, provided to give maximum notice of possible disruption. However, the bridge status can change at any time, and no guarantees can be given.”

12:31pm – Overall update from Pembrokeshire County Council

“The current situation is as follows:

Approximately 200 properties without power in the Eglwyswrw area, including the school which has had to close.
one tree blocking minor road near junction with B4313 at Brynconin, Llandissilio
bench on Castle Hill, Tenby, dislodged by wind
Cleddau Bridge now closed to high sided vehicles. Anticipated that a full closure will follow. Road crews will be based at Carew Bridge to assist diverted traffic.

“Road users, especially HGV drivers, are advised to access South Pembrokeshire via Begelly to alleviate pressure at Carew Bridge.

“The high tide this afternoon is around 1650 hours and members of the public are warned to stay away from the coastline.

“Flood warnings are in place for the Pembrokeshire coast and the flood gates at Little Haven have been closed.

“Pembrokeshire County Council crews will be monitoring Newgale where there is concern about water penetrating the shingle bank and possibly throwing pebbles onto the road. Other beaches also being monitored.

“The following schools in Pembrokeshire are closing

Ysgol Preseli, Crymych
Milford Haven Comprehensive
Pembroke Comprehensive
Pupil Referral Units at Neyland and Penally
Portfield School, Haverfordwest
Greenhill Comprehensive, Tenby
Penrhyn (Stackpole)
Spittal Church in Wales
Sir Thomas Picton Comprehensive, Haverfordwest
Saundersfoot Primary
Milford Haven Junior
Meads Infant and Nursery, Milford Haven
Neyland Community
Tavernspite Primary
Eglwyswrw Primary
Templeton Primary
Ysgol y Frenni, Crymych
Ysgol Clydau, Tegryn
Ysgol Bro Gwaun
Tasker-Milward Comprehensive, Haverfordwest
Hook Primary
Ysgol Gymunedol, Maenclochog
Ysgol Gymunedol, Brynconin
Ysgol Dewi Sant

“Other schools currently reviewing transport arrangements, especially for exposed areas.”

12:20pm – Castle School to close

“As the weather is continuing to worsen we have made the decision to close the school this afternoon. The buses will leave at 1.30pm but you are welcome to pick up your child before if you wish.

“Staff will remain at school with pupils who cannot be collected until later. If you cannot arrive until later or you do not want your child to go on the bus please let us know by phoning reception.

“Apologies for the inconvenience but we have had to follow advice.”

12:08pm – More school closures
Saundersfoot Community Primary School – closing at 12.30pm
Sir Thomas Picton School, Haverfordwest – closing at 12.30pm
Spittal Church in Wales VC School – closing at 12.30pm.

12:06pm – Tavernspite Community School closing

“Tavernspite Community Primary School.

“Parents are asked to collect pupils as soon as possible.”

12:05pm – Power cut at Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Eglwyswrw

“Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Eglwyswrw -Temporary Power Outage.

“School transport has been called for those who use it. parents of other pupils are asked to collect them asap”

12:05pm – Templteton School closure

“Templeton Community Primary School.

“Parents are asked to collect pupils as soon as possible.”

11:50am – More schools to close early
Ysgol y Preseli – closing at 12pm
Ysgol Gymunedol Brynconin – Llandissilio – closing at 12pm
Ysgol Gymunedol Maenclochog – closing at 12pm
Hook Community Primary School – closing at 12pm
Stackpole Church in Wales VC School – closing at 12.30pm
Tasker Milward VC School – closing at 12.30pm
Ysgol Bro Gwaun, Fishguard – closing at 1pm
Ysgol Clydau, Tegryn – Closing at 12.30pm
Ysgol y Frenni, Crymych – closing at 12.30pm
The Meads Infant and Nursery School – Milford Haven – closing from 12.30pm

11:45am – Cleddau Bridge closed to high sided vehicles

10:26am – Golden Grove School remains open

“Just to keep you aware – Golden Grove School is remaining open today, despite the closure of Pembroke School. We will, however, be monitoring the situation closely and keep you updated.”

10:23am – Pembroke School closes early

“Due to the worsening weather conditions, Pembroke School will close for pupils from 11am this morning.

“Pupils will be permitted to leave from 11am. Hot food will be available if required from 11.00-11.30. School buses will arrive at 11.30am.

“It would be appreciated if parents do not arrive to collect pupils until 11am, at the end of period 2.

“School is expected to operate as a normal school day tomorrow”

10:12am – Milford Haven School closes early

“Dear Parent/Carer. Due to the Amber weather warning the school has made the decision to close at 11.45 today on the grounds of health and safety. School Transport will be available at 11.45 for pupils and parents are requested to collect pupils from the Main reception for pupils who would normally walk home. If it is not possible to collect your child please contact the school to give your permission for them to walk home. Thank you for your support.”

9:41am – Cleddau Bridge closures likely, council say

“Pembrokeshire is forecast to be hit by strong winds later today. It is anticipated that the bridge will be closed during this event, although it is impossible to give any guarantees.

“In order for you to plan any journeys for the remainder of the day our anticipated status of the bridge, given current information is as follows:

“Bridge closed to high sided and potentially all vehicles from 12:30pm onwards. This is highly dependent upon wind direction as well as wind speed, and we may experience the unusual situation of the bridge being closed to all traffic without any intermediate closure to high sided vehicles.

“Any closure is expected to last until around 17:00pm when the bridge may open again to cars only. Full opening of the bridge to all traffic is not expected until around 21:00pm.

“Given that the disruption is likely to extend into the peak commuter time this evening, you are advised to monitor the situation carefully, and adjust your travel plans accordingly.”

The Met Office has warned that there could be a danger to life due to flying debris in the high wind.

There could also be disruption to travel as roads could be flooded and fallen trees could cause obstruction.

The Cleddau Bridge may also close high-sided or all vehicles.

Those living by the coast have been told to stay away from the water to avoid risk of being blown or swept into the sea.

1,200 soldiers are on standby across the UK to respond to any significant incidents caused by the storm.

On Friday (Oct 12), the Port of Milford Haven issued a warning saying: “Please be advised that hurricane strength winds are forecast for Monday evening. All mooring holders are asked to make every effort to remove their vessels from moorings or alternatively ensure they are securely fastened to moorings on the waterway to minimise potential damage.”

News

Questions raised over delayed west Wales express coach as FOI row deepens

Published

3 hours ago

March 27, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Concerns mount over transparency after Transport for Wales delays response on key documents

QUESTIONS are being raised over the future of a long-promised express coach service linking north and south west Wales, after a Freedom of Information (FOI) request triggered a delay by Transport for Wales.

The proposed express route between Bangor and Carmarthen was identified in a Welsh Government-backed business case in early 2025 as a key project capable of cutting journey times by up to 90 minutes.

However, more than a year after a public consultation was held, there has been no clear update on funding, delivery, or timelines.

Now, a detailed FOI request submitted to TfW is seeking answers — including business case documents, internal communications, and consultation results — but the transport body has said it needs more time to respond.

FOI delay sparks concern

In a reply dated Friday (Mar 27), TfW said it was relying on Section 43 of the Freedom of Information Act, which relates to commercial interests, and that it required additional time to carry out a public interest test.

The authority has indicated it will respond fully by April 28.

But the applicant, Dr John McTighe, has challenged that position, arguing that most of the requested information — including meeting dates, consultation documents, and performance data — cannot reasonably be considered commercially sensitive.

He has warned that failure to provide the non-sensitive material promptly could result in a referral to the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Contrast with north Wales rollout

The FOI request also highlights the introduction of the TrawsCymru T51 service between Wrexham and Rhyl, which was launched in 2025 and is set to receive a fleet of new vehicles this year.

Critics argue that while the north Wales route has progressed quickly, the west-coast express proposal — described as a “headline ambition” for improving north–south connectivity — appears to have stalled.

The Herald understands that the Bangor–Carmarthen route was backed by a positive business case and formed part of wider plans to improve long-distance public transport links across Wales.

Transparency questions

The request seeks details of meetings, internal correspondence, and consultation analysis — including the results of a public consultation which TfW said would be assessed using specialist software.

It also asks for information on how passenger numbers and performance data are monitored across the TrawsCymru network.

Concerns have been raised that key performance data, including annual passenger figures and punctuality statistics, are not routinely published in full.

Calls for clarity

The delay has prompted fresh calls for transparency over how decisions are made on publicly funded transport services in Wales.

There is particular concern in west Wales that strategic investment may not be progressing at the same pace as elsewhere, despite longstanding commitments to improve connectivity along the western corridor.

A spokesperson for Transport for Wales said the organisation is considering where the balance of public interest lies before releasing the requested information, and confirmed a full response will be issued by April 28.

The Welsh Government has been approached for comment.

Local Government

Oil spill alert after pollution hits Pembroke stream and Castle Pond

Published

3 hours ago

March 27, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Heating oil believed to have entered water via culvert as investigation and clean-up continue

AN UGENT investigation is underway after a suspected heating oil spill contaminated the Commons Stream and spread into Castle Pond in Pembroke.

Pembroke Town Council first raised the alarm, warning residents of a potential pollution incident affecting the watercourse. Officers from Pembrokeshire County Council’s Pollution Control Team and Natural Resources Wales are now on site working to identify the source and contain the spill.

Further information from local county councillor Aaron Carey suggests the oil likely entered the stream through a culvert near Foundry House, indicating the source may lie somewhere to the south of that location.

The substance is believed to be domestic heating oil. It is not yet known whether the spill was accidental or the result of a possible attempted fuel theft.

Residents in St Daniel’s Hill, South Road and Orange Gardens are being urged to check their heating oil tanks for any signs of damage or unexplained loss.

Witnesses reported seeing a blue-green sheen on the water near the castle side earlier today, raising concerns about the extent of the contamination.

Clean-up efforts are ongoing, and members of the public may notice increased activity around the stream and pond while teams work to manage the incident.

Anyone with information or concerns is advised to contact the relevant authorities.

News

Reform UK candidate quits days after Nazi salute row

Published

3 hours ago

March 27, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Corey Edwards stood in Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg and appeared at national hustings shortly before stepping down

REFORM UK Senedd candidate Corey Edwards has stepped down from the upcoming election, just days after controversy over a photograph appearing to show him making a Nazi salute.

The party confirmed on Thursday (Mar 27) that Edwards had withdrawn from the race, citing mental health issues. A spokesperson said: “Corey Edwards has informed us that he is stepping down as a candidate for the Senedd election this May, citing issues with his mental health.

“We wish him well for the future and hope his privacy can be respected at this difficult time.”

Edwards had been selected as Reform UK’s lead candidate for Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg, meaning he was in a strong position to be elected if the party secured a seat in the constituency.

His withdrawal comes shortly after a photograph emerged, first published by Nation.Cymru, which appeared to show him performing a Nazi salute. Edwards said the image, taken in 2019, could be “misinterpreted” and claimed he had been imitating either a scene from Fawlty Towers or Welsh footballer Wayne Hennessey, who was previously involved in a similar controversy.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said the image “looked terrible” but confirmed Edwards would not be removed as a candidate at the time, describing him as “a human being” and referencing the sitcom scene as context.

Edwards had also appeared publicly as a Reform representative at a national youth hustings event in Cardiff on Thursday (Mar 19), alongside politicians from other major parties.

In a statement, Edwards said: “Like many young people, I have made mistakes. But I am proud of the person I am today and the values I stand for.”

The Herald understands that Reform UK has not yet confirmed whether a replacement candidate will be selected for the constituency.