Storm Claudia caused devastating floods across Wales, particularly impacting Monmouth and nearby areas. A major incident was declared in Monmouth by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service due to severe flooding that submerged homes, businesses, and roads.
Rivers, including the Monnow, reached record-breaking water levels, surpassing those seen in previous major storms like Bert and Dennis, as they struggled to cope with the intense rainfall. Emergency services, including police, ambulance crews, mountain rescue, coastguard, and neighboring fire services, alongside organizations like the British Red Cross, were mobilized to assist affected communities.
Numerous residents were evacuated from their homes and rescued from floodwaters, with some being trapped overnight before emergency services could reach them. Serious Flood Warnings remained in place for several days in the aftermath, highlighting the ongoing danger and extent of the damage.
Villages around Monmouth and the town of Abergavenny also experienced significant flooding, with roads such as parts of the M4 and the Heads of the Valleys road also affected by the downpour.
