News
Stay vigilant as more heavy rain expected say Natural Resources Wales
NATURAL RESOURCES WALES is reminding people to stay vigilant as heavy rain will continue to affect parts South Wales, and in particular Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire on Friday (9 November).
Significant river and further surface water flooding impacts are likely in West Wales as heavy rain is forecast to fall this afternoon on already saturated ground, which could lead to some localised flooding and disruption to travel.
Pembrokeshire was worst hit on Thursday (8 November) as the amount of rain combined with leaves and other debris blocking drains causing flooding of road surfaces and properties.
The Mid and West Wales Fire Service crews were called to action to flooded properties, and some businesses and garages were inundated by flood water across the county. Pumps were used in Lower Priory, Milford Haven try to reduce the level of the pill below Lower Priory during the high tide, and Fire Service and Police were on hand to assist residents affected by flooding.
NRW has issued four flood warnings for the Haverfordwest and Solva areas, and these remain in force.
Officers from NRW will be monitoring forecasts closely and may issue further warnings, and teams are continuing to check that flood defences are in good working order and that rivers are clear of debris which could restrict river flows.
People are advised to take care near fast-flowing and swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water.
Andrea Winterton, NRW’s Duty Tactical Manager for South West Wales, said:
“We’re asking people to take care and regularly view our flood alerts and warnings, updated every 15 minutes on our live flood warning map available on our website.
“With more wet weather forecast it is also advisable to check local weather reports and news for any disruption in your area and leave extra time for journeys.
“If you want to find out if you are at risk of flooding or want to sign up for our free Flood Warning Service, please visit our website or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.”
Pembrokeshire County Council has also warned property owners in Haverfordwest to be prepared for the possibility of more flooding tonight.
A council spokesperson said: “Predicted heavy rainfall this afternoon and evening is expected to significantly increase the level of the River Cleddau running through the town.
“Quay Street and the Riverside – including County Hall – are expected to be most at risk along with Prospect Place and properties in the vicinity of Cartlett Brook.
“Four flood warnings are currently in place in Pembrokeshire at Solva and nearby Middle Mill and for the Western Cleddau at Merlins Bridge and Riverside, Haverfordwest.
“Last night six cottages near the Havenshead retail park in Milford Haven were evacuated due to flooding as were four properties at Lower Priory on the outskirts of the town.
“The town’s library on the retail park is closed today and other businesses nearby have been advised of the risk of further flooding. Pembroke library is also closed today.
“For further flooding updates.”
Community
Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity
THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.
Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.
The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.
Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.
Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.
(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)
Business
Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure
PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.
The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.
The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.
A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”
Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.
Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.
From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.
Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.
(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend
ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.
In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”
Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.
Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.
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