Authorities have discovered a body in the River Conwy while searching for a missing man, Brian Perry, aged 75, who disappeared during the severe weather conditions of Storm Bert. Although formal identification has not yet occurred, Perry’s family has been notified of the tragic development.
Perry was walking with his wife and dog when he went missing around 4:30 PM GMT on Saturday. According to North Wales Police, the area experienced significant flooding, complicating rescue efforts.
Chief Inspector Simon Kneale stated that the police are providing support to Mr. Perry’s family during this challenging time.
Storm Bert has unleashed substantial flooding across Wales, leading to numerous flood warnings and a major incident declaration in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Residents in Pontypridd have been particularly affected, with reports of homes inundated and roads submerged.
Emergency shelters have been established at various local venues, including Ystrad Sports Centre and Pontypridd Library, to assist those displaced by the floodwaters.
Business owner Steve West expressed his concern as he cleared his office on Mill Street, noting the dire situation faced by nearby shops.
“We’re just waiting for the water to recede now really,” West remarked regarding his efforts to assist affected businesses.
The impact of Storm Bert is extensive, with significant flooding reported in areas like Caerphilly and Newport, as well as landslips in Wrexham County and Merthyr Tydfil.
Natural Resources Wales has issued over 40 flood warnings alongside 50 alerts, while approximately 10,000 residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf have been advised to boil their tap water due to quality concerns at local treatment facilities.
Power outages have also affected around 1,300 properties in southern and western Wales as a result of severe weather conditions. With ongoing wind warnings and heavy rain forecasted to continue affecting the region, communities are bracing for further disruptions.
As Storm Bert continues its relentless assault on Wales and parts of England, residents are left grappling with both immediate dangers and longer-term recovery challenges. The resilience of these communities will be tested in the days ahead as they navigate through this crisis.
Storm Bert Causes Severe Disruption Across Wales As Storm Bert sweeps through Wales, significant flooding and widespread disruption have prompted urgent responses from local authorities.
Storm Bert Causes Disruption Across Northern Ireland Storm Bert has unleashed a wave of severe weather across Northern Ireland, prompting a yellow warning for high winds.