Cardigan, Crymych, Llanfyrnach and Nevern among communities at risk of water restrictions if dry weather continues

WELSH WATER has declared a ‘Developing Drought’ in parts of North Pembrokeshire and Mid and South Ceredigion, as reservoir levels in the Teifi catchment fall significantly below seasonal expectations.

The warning affects around 32,000 properties across the water supply network fed by the Teifi Pools reservoirs and the River Teifi at Llechryd. Communities in North Pembrokeshire including Crymych, Llanfyrnach and Nevern are among those potentially facing summer water restrictions if conditions do not improve.

The supply area also includes towns in Ceredigion such as Llanon, Llangwyryfon, and Cwm Ystwyth, as well as parts of North Carmarthenshire, including Farmers, Pencader, and Hermon.

Welsh Water confirmed that the Teifi Pools—located high in the Cambrian Mountains—have received just 37% of their expected rainfall between March and May. The surrounding peatland, which usually helps store and slowly release water, is retaining more than it should, with little recent rain to replenish the system.

Reservoir levels are now 31% lower than this time last year. While there is no immediate risk to water supplies, the water company says hosepipe bans could follow if the situation worsens.

Marc Davies, Director of Water Services, said: “We are giving our customers early warning by moving to ‘Developing Drought’ status for Mid and South Ceredigion, which includes parts of North Pembrokeshire.

“We’re not telling people not to use water—just to use what they need, without waste. If we don’t get significant rainfall soon, temporary restrictions may be necessary.”

Welsh Water is currently fixing around 700 leaks a week and says that transferring water from other parts of Wales is not practical due to the geography and cost.

No other region in Wales is currently under a drought status. If restrictions are introduced, Welsh Water will contact customers directly and provide a postcode checker online.

Local residents can find water-saving tips and updates at dwrcymru.com.

Llys y Fran and Coed Uno recognised for their green innovation and community benefit

TWO Pembrokeshire woodland sites have been selected to join the growing National Forest for Wales, as part of a major expansion announced by the Welsh Government this week.

Llys y Fran and Coed Uno are among ten new sites added to the scheme, which now covers over 4,000 hectares and includes 70 woodlands across Wales. The announcement was made on Thursday (June 12) by Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, who is also responsible for Climate Change and Rural Affairs.

The new sites bring an additional 389 hectares of woodland into the National Forest network. Coed Uno, in particular, is a first for Wales – it is the country’s first agroforestry site to be recognised as part of the forest initiative. The woodland is part of the Hwb Dysgu’r Tir project, which teaches visitors how to integrate tree planting with traditional agricultural practices.

Llys y Fran, already well-known to many Pembrokeshire residents as a popular reservoir and recreational area, will now benefit from enhanced conservation efforts and access funding under the National Forest framework.

Mr Irranca-Davies praised the diversity and quality of the new additions. He said: “It’s wonderful to see the continued expansion of the National Forest for Wales and to welcome this next group of woodlands to the network. These sites are helping to deliver environmental benefits, create green jobs, and support local wellbeing.”

The National Forest programme not only focuses on reforestation and biodiversity, but also supports local health boards through green prescription schemes, provides education and skills training, and encourages community involvement in woodland management.

The latest expansion round includes woodlands in Carmarthenshire, Powys, Gwynedd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Ceredigion, Flintshire and Gwent. In total, the National Forest for Wales aims to connect woodlands across the country and improve access to nature for all communities.

The Welsh Government is encouraging more landowners, community groups and local authorities to put forward suitable sites for future inclusion.

For Pembrokeshire, the recognition of Llys y Fran and Coed Uno signals further investment in the region’s natural environment, with the potential to boost tourism, education and sustainability.

With storms looming, expert shares five tips to calm frightened animals

WITH a three-day thunderstorm warning in place for Wales, vets are urging pet owners to take proactive steps to ease the distress experienced by their furry companions.

Loud claps of thunder, sudden flashes of lightning and even pressure changes in the air can trigger extreme anxiety in pets. According to a recent survey, 42% of owners say their animals suffer from weather-related stress.

Veterinary surgeon and medical writer Lily Richards (BSc Hons BVSc MRCVS) has teamed up with TrustedHousesitters to offer practical advice on how to care for pets during periods of unsettled weather.

She explains: “Pets are incredibly sensitive to changes in the environment. They don’t just hear the thunder – they feel it, and they often know a storm is coming long before we do.”

Among the most surprising recommendations is to throw a ‘thunderstorm party’.

“Distraction is key,” says Richards. “Close the curtains, play some music, and have an energetic game of tug or fetch. It might sound silly, but it really works for my own Collie, who forgets the storm is even happening.”

A study by TrustedHousesitters found that background noise helps to ease pet anxiety, with 34% of owners using music or television. However, 43% said their pet’s favourite toy is the most effective calming tool.

Five tips to keep pets calm in a storm

1. Be prepared
Check the weather forecast daily. Don’t take dogs for walks if a storm is likely. Keep cats indoors and bring small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs inside. Secure your garden and house to prevent any escape attempts from frightened animals.

2. Create a safe space
Prepare a quiet, dark den with blankets, favourite toys, and a puzzle feeder. Drawing the curtains helps reduce lightning flashes that can add to the fear.

3. Respect their space
While some pets seek cuddles, others prefer solitude. “Don’t force affection on an anxious animal,” Richards advises. “Let them pace or hide if that’s how they cope.”

4. Use natural remedies
Try calming options like lavender oil, anxiety diffusers, ‘thundershirts’ (snug-fitting garments), or pet-safe ear wraps. These mimic the comfort of being swaddled and may help release endorphins.

5. Distract with treats
A third of pet owners say treats reduce anxiety. You can adjust feeding times to coincide with stormy weather. Some owners also report success using CBD-infused snacks for highly nervous dogs.

Angela Laws, Community Manager at TrustedHousesitters and a seasoned pet sitter, said: “Watching a pet in distress is heartbreaking. But we can help – and we must. Whether you’re a pet parent or a sitter, knowing how to manage anxiety during a storm can make all the difference.”

About TrustedHousesitters

Founded in Brighton in 2010, TrustedHousesitters is the world’s largest pet-sitting community, connecting owners and sitters across 140 countries. With over 240,000 members, the platform enables pet lovers to exchange care for accommodation, offering peace of mind for owners and unforgettable experiences for sitters.

For more information, visit: www.TrustedHousesitters.com