Monmouthshire has experienced the fourth day of a severe weather incident. The storm has impacted the whole county but has been most acute in Usk, Monmouth and surrounding areas. Water levels in Monmouth are still high and more bad weather is forecast so this position is likely to continue for the remainder of the week.

Monmouth has been significantly impacted over the last two days. Various roads and the Wye bridge are closed and are set to continue to be closed – residents are urged to travel with caution. There is standing flood water in the Monmouth area that poses a potential danger.

Hundreds of properties (residential and commercial) have been flooded. Several hundred people are either living in part of their home (upstairs) or have relocated to either hotel accommodation or are staying with friends / family.

A rest centre continues to operate from Shire Hall, Monmouth for any residents who require support.

The Wye Bridge will continue to be closed until the water level has gone down, the structure of the bridge has been checked and the decision is made that it is safe for people and vehicles to use the bridge again. This is a precautionary action.

Welsh Water Mayhill Water Treatment Works has been closed due to the flooding. Plans are in place to ensure people have access to water. A fleet of tankers will continually top up the distribution system and bottled water stations are established in case supplies drop off.

Monmouthshire County Council Leader, Peter Fox said: “My heart goes out to people across the county who have been impacted by the severe weather that we have been experiencing in Monmouthshire. I would like to thank all of our partner agencies who are working hard to keep people safe. Support and coordination from all emergency services has been excellent.

“The situation around Monmouth is challenging and dynamic. We have not been able to save all properties but all people are safe. Where people have required assistance to leave their home it has been provided and where people are choosing to stay we are helping where we can. There have been water based rescues and we are pleased to report everyone who has been rescued is safe albeit a number have been in need of care and support.

“This exercise is likely to run for several days yet. Residents are being advised to travel with care today as there is still a lot of water about.”