Powys County Council is working together with partner agencies and local flood groups to ensure communities are prepared for the expected heavy and persistent rain of Storm Ciarán, as the Met Office extends the yellow weather warning to the whole of the county.

Preparations are being made to help keep people and property safe. Teams are out checking flood defences are in good working order, clearing gulleys and ditches and operating temporary defences where needed to help reduce flood risk to communities. 

The Met Office has announced that the yellow weather warning initially issued for Storm Ciarán has now been extended to cover the entirety of Powys.

The updated forecast warns of fast-flowing or deep floodwater, which poses a serious threat to life. Homes and businesses may be at risk of flooding, with possible damage to buildings.

Storm Ciarán, the second major storm to hit Powys in recent weeks following the havoc caused by Storm Babet, is expected to arrive today (November 1).

The inclement weather is anticipated to begin this evening, commencing around 6pm, and persist until approximately midnight tomorrow (November 2). Local residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather reports and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and protect their properties.

Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys said:

"Together with our partners, our officers have been working hard to not only clear up from Storm Babet but also prepare for Storm Ciarán."

"Flood defences across the county are ready to be used and depots have supplies of sandbags ready to deploy, if needed. Flooding hotspots are being monitored and staff are engaging with local flood groups in to ensure that communities are as prepared as can be.

"We urge residents to stay safe and consider any steps they may need to take now to be prepared for the bad weather, to take extra care if you need to travel, and to always adhere to any warnings issued over the next few days."

For more information about preparing for, or dealing with flooding, please visit: Floods