Storm Ciarán: Communities across Wales hit by travel disruption

Trainlines across north and mid Wales were closed and ferries cancelled after Storm Ciaran battered the UK.

Campers at a caravan park had to be evacuated due to flood water and although the worst of the weather passed by Thursday evening, a severe flood warning remains in place in Tenby.

Kiln Park caravan park near Tenby has already evacuated residents for fear of danger to life due to warnings of severe flooding.

A severe flood alert is in place for the River Ritec in Tenby Credit: National Resources Wales

Ross Akers, NRW’s Duty Tactical Manager, said:  "As Storm Ciarán continues to move across Wales there still remains a risk of significant flood impacts, and we are urging people to be aware of the weather forecasts and be prepared.  

“We’re expecting to see very heavy rainfall in North and Mid Wales later today (Thursday) and this rain will fall in places in North Wales that experienced flooding during Storm Babet. 

“Our teams are doing all they can to reduce the risk for communities. But if there is flooding we want to make sure people are doing all they can to keep themselves safe too.

The caravan park was forced to evacuate residents due to severe flood warnings. Credit: Media Wales

"We urge people to keep away from swollen rivers, and not to drive or to walk through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and can contain hidden hazards. Allow extra time for any journeys as driving conditions will be hazardous. 

“Take care when out and about today – especially if visiting the South and Mid Wales coasts.  

“Making sure you know what the situation is like where you live is really important. You can check your flood risk and the latest flood alerts and warnings on our website which is refreshed every 15 minutes.

"Keep an eye on @NatResWales on X (Twitter) for the latest information and listen to weather reports and local news for details of any disruption in your area.” 

But what other disruptions are expected?

Trains

  • Heart of Wales Line - Trains will not run. Passengers are advised not to travel on this route

  • Conwy Valley Line – Trains will not run. Rail replacement services will be in operation, but please check before travelling

  • Cambrian Line - train services between Machynlleth and Shrewsbury will run at a reduced 2 hourly frequency

  • Trains on other routes may also be subject to short-notice delays and cancellations.

Bridges

  • Restrictions are in place on the M48 Severn Bridge in both directions due to strong winds.

  • Britannia Bridge, which crosses the Menai Strait between Anglesey and Bangor, has issued a speed limit of 30 mph for all vehicles.

 Ferries

All sailings have been cancelled on Stena Line between Fishguard and Rosslare due to poor weather conditions.

A spokesperson said: "Due to forecast adverse weather conditions, Stena Line has cancelled sailings on its Rosslare - Cherbourg route today. Provided the weather improves, this service is due to recommence tomorrow."

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