Amber alerts for flooding risk
The Met Office says the storm will bring very heavy rain and strong winds through Monday night into Tuesday, with saturated ground raising fears of flooding.
Amber warnings for rain are in force from midnight until 10am on Tuesday in Pontardawe, Neath and Maesteg, with the potential for flooding and travel disruption during the morning rush hour.
Yellow warnings for rain cover Swansea, Carmarthen, Llanelli, Port Talbot, Bridgend, Haverfordwest and Maesteg, while Carmarthen and Haverfordwest also face yellow wind alerts overnight.
“Very wet and windy spell” warns forecaster
Met Office Chief Forecaster Dan Suri said:
“Storm Bram will bring a very wet and windy spell of weather, with very strong winds and further heavy rain which, falling over saturated ground, could cause flooding impacts. Gusts of 50–60mph, and perhaps 70mph in a few spots, are expected across Wales.”
Rainfall totals could reach up to 100mm over higher ground in South Wales, prompting warnings that alerts may be updated as conditions worsen.
RoSPA urges extra precautions
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has warned that Storm Bram poses risks not only outdoors but also in homes and on the roads.
Steve Cole, Policy Director at RoSPA, said:
“Storm Bram isn’t just a risk outdoors; homes may be vulnerable too. Secure garden furniture, bins, and anything that could blow away or cause damage. Indoors, make sure windows and doors are firmly shut and keep an emergency kit ready.”
RoSPA is advising people to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in amber warning areas.
- Keep mobile phones charged in case of power cuts.
- Secure outdoor items such as bins and garden furniture.
- Prepare a basic emergency kit with torches, batteries and food.
- Check in on vulnerable neighbours.
On the roads, RoSPA warns that rain doubles stopping distances and aquaplaning can happen in seconds. Drivers are urged to slow down, keep their distance, and never attempt to drive through floodwater.
Natural Resources Wales urges vigilance
Charlotte Morgan, Duty Tactical Manager at Natural Resources Wales, said:
“We are asking people to be alert for potential flooding with heavy rain predicted through today and overnight, especially in parts of South Wales.
With some rivers already swollen and the ground saturated, we expect to see a number of flood alerts and warnings issued. We’re urging people to be vigilant and to make preparations for potential flooding now.”
Residents are being reminded to keep away from swollen riverbanks, avoid driving or walking through flood waters, and prepare flood kits with documents, medication and valuables.
Staying safe in the storm
Authorities advise securing loose objects such as garden furniture, fastening doors and windows, and parking vehicles away from trees and walls.
The Met Office’s WeatherReady pages provide further advice on storm safety and flood alerts, updated every 15 minutes.
What’s next
Storm Bram will slowly move northwards on Wednesday, leaving South West Wales with showers and blustery conditions. Thursday is expected to bring a drier spell for many, though frost is possible in central and eastern areas.
