Communities in the Rhondda Valley have been left grappling with managing potentially contaminated water after being hit by the recent Storm Bert flooding. Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water issued a ‘boil water notice’ for customers residing in various parts of the valley following the impact of the storm and flooding on the Tynywaun Water Treatment Works in Treherbert. Residents in areas including Blaenrhondda, Blaencwm, Tynewydd, Treherbert, Treorchy, Cwm-parc, Pentre, Ton Pentre, Gelli and Tonypandy have been cautioned to boil water before using it for consumption, cooking, oral hygiene, and dishwashing.
Local MS Buffy Williams disclosed that the estimated end date for the boil water notice is set on Friday, November 29. The inconvenience caused by this situation has left some vulnerable residents waiting for bottled water deliveries. Mark Yoxen expressed his disappointment in Welsh Water, stating that his elderly and disabled parents have had to rely on family and neighbours to fetch bottled water as none has been delivered to them. Similarly, Beth Hughes from Pentre highlighted the escalating energy bills due to the constant need to boil water, especially with her dog requiring chemotherapy medication which increases its water intake.
To assist affected households, bottled water distribution points have been set up at the Rhondda Sport Centre in Ystrad, Ynyswyen Industrial Estate and the Coop on Station Road, Treorchy. However, some residents have raised concerns about the accessibility of these locations, particularly emphasising the challenge for disabled and elderly individuals without transportation. Laurie Powell, a mother of three from Pentre, shared her struggles in securing water bottles due to mobility constraints, despite managing to collect some water bottles while dropping her children off at school.
Businesses in the area are also feeling the impact, with Donna Ball, the owner of The Salad and Deli Bar in Treorchy, highlighting the prolonged food preparation process using boiled or bottled water. Geena Megran, an employee at Dave’s Fish & Chips in Treherbert, echoed the sentiment, stressing the additional time and effort required to cook and clean with limited water resources. The operational challenges faced by these businesses have been exacerbated by the discoloured and dirty water running from taps, necessitating repeated boiling for safety.
The adversity extends beyond households and businesses, reaching individuals like Sian Hardwick whose home on Dunraven Street was adversely affected by the floods, leaving behind a residue of “brown sludge everywhere”. Despite the challenges, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has taken measures to support those impacted, offering financial assistance to eligible households and businesses affected by the boil water notice. Additionally, they have initiated bottled water deliveries for vulnerable customers registered on the Priority Services Register and established water bottle stations for residents.
Welsh Water spokesperson acknowledged the difficulties faced by customers during this period and apologised for the inconvenience caused. Amidst the crisis, efforts are ongoing to mitigate the challenges and provide essential support to the community. As residents continue to grapple with the aftermath of Storm Bert and subsequent flooding, the resilience and unity displayed in the face of adversity remain key strengths in navigating this challenging period.