11.06.12
Flood evacuation in Wales
Heavy rainfall and flooding across mid-Wales this weekend led to the evacuation of hundreds of people from their homes.
The Environment Agency has warned of the possibility of more flooding across the north of Englandthis week.
In Pennal, Gwynedd, 600 people were temporarily evacuated amid fears of a reservoir dam at risk of collapsing, following a landslide. In Aberystwyth, 150 residents were evacuated from their homes as a number of rivers burst their banks.
Andy Francis, of Mid and WestWalesFire and Rescue Service, said “A lot of floodwater has gone through them, leaving a huge amount of damage, and a residual danger as well from the biohazards, from sewerage and other contaminants.
“Lots of sewers may have been damaged, and gas and water supplies damaged, so my advice to anybody entering their properties this morning is to take sensible precautions.”
Wales’ First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “Yet again we have witnessed the impressive bravery of our emergency services. Working in truly harrowing conditions they ensured up to 1,000 people were moved to safety. It is thanks to the professionalism and dedication of both our professional and volunteer emergency crews that no lives have been lost.”
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