Friday, November 13, 2009

Opnieuw grote wateroverlast Wales...( bbc)

Rail delays as rain brings floods

Flooding from the heavy rain has closed a rail line
Flooding and its aftermath continues to cause delays and disruption to drivers and commuters across Wales.

A reduced rail service is running after a rockslide on the Newport side of Chepstow station closed the line.

Replacement buses between Newport and Gloucester and Arriva Trains Wales is advising passengers to allow more time for their journeys.

Meanwhile, a fallen tree partially blocking the A40 near Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, has been cleared.

The A40 at Bancyfelin, Carmarthenshire, was said to be just passable despite flooding on both sides of the carriageway.

Environment Agency Wales and the Met Office have urged people to be aware of possible flooding as more heavy rain is forecast over the next few days.

Network Rail spokesman said the rockslide at Chepstow happened on a part of the line that runs next to an old quarry.

Arriva Trains Wales said it was not known how long the disruption would last but the line was not expected to reopen until at least 1500 BST on Friday.

'More rain'

The firm is advising passengers to allow more time for their journeys.

Those travelling to and from Caldicot are advised to use the Severn Tunnel Junction as an alternative.

The worst of the rain is expected to hit south Wales and the valleys.

Weather forecasters say the rain is expected to ease on on Sunday before more heavy rain moves in on Monday.

Environment Agency Wales staff are said to on 24-hour alert to check flood defences, clear river blockages and install flood barriers where necessary.