Welshpool residents told “avoid unnecessary travel” today

Welshpool residents are being advised to “avoid unnecessary travel” today as Storm Claudia brings torrential ‘danger to life’ rainfall this afternoon.

The area has been saturated overnight by heavy rain, with puddles already causing problems for motorists, but the rain is expected to get heavier from around noon until midnight tonight.

And this morning The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has been in touch to urge our readers to take extra precautions.

They have told us that flooding, transport disruption, and dangerous driving conditions are likely, and some communities could even be cut off completely. 

Steve Cole, Policy Director at RoSPA, said: “Storm Claudia 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.

“On the roads, your regular journey may be difficult. Rain doubles stopping distances and aquaplaning can happen in seconds. Slow down, keep your distance, and never attempt to drive through floodwater. These simple steps can help protect your home, your journey and keep communities safe.” 

RoSPA advises the public to take immediate steps to reduce the risk of injury and disruption: 

• Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in areas under Amber warnings or where flooding is likely. 

• Keep mobile phones and essential devices fully charged in case of power cuts. 

• Monitor official weather updates and follow instructions from local authorities. 

• Secure outdoor items such as bins, signage, and garden furniture to prevent damage. 

• Prepare a basic emergency kit with torches, batteries, and non-perishable food. 

• Stay indoors during periods of severe weather and ensure windows and doors are shut. 

• Check in on vulnerable neighbours, particularly those living alone or in rural areas.

Driving safety tips during heavy rain and flooding 

• Rain reduces visibility and doubles stopping distances: slow down and plan manoeuvres early. 

• Use windscreen wipers, washers, and dipped headlights at all times. 

• Aquaplaning happens when tyres lose grip on surface water: reduce speed, maintain correct tyre pressure and tread depth. If it occurs, ease off the accelerator and brakes until grip returns. 

• On flooded roads: avoid deep water near kerbs, don’t cross if depth is uncertain, and if you proceed, drive slowly in first gear, keep engine speed high, and test brakes after exiting water. 

• Avoid flooded areas wherever possible. 

Storm Claudia is expected to ease up the other side of midnight but a yellow warning for rain remains in place through to 6am tomorrow.

PICTURE: Trouble spots like the Airport straight are expected tom flood today.