A river in Betws-y-Coed, a popular tourist village in Wales, experienced a dramatic change in appearance recently. The Afon Llugwy, known for its crystal-clear waters, suddenly turned a startling yellow-brown colour within hours. This unexpected transformation raised concerns among locals and visitors, leading to speculation about potential pollution or spills in the area. The incident was initially reported by kayakers on Saturday morning, who were taken aback by the bright yellow hue of the water flowing over the famous Swallow Falls.
As the news spread, photos captured from the Pont-y-Pair bridge in Betws-y-Coed revealed the river’s new orange-brown colour, prompting further alarm. Witnesses described the sight as unprecedented, with one visitor noting the significant discoloration compared to previous observations. Authorities swiftly responded to the situation, with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water and officers from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) investigating the cause of the sudden change in the river’s appearance.
The Afon Llugwy is a tributary of the River Conwy, originating from the Carneddau range of mountains in Eryri. The region’s high levels of annual rainfall have been cited as a possible factor contributing to the altered river colour. Speculations have also arisen about the potential involvement of Coed Mawr Pool Mine, a historic lead processing site near Llyn Pencraig, in connection to the incident. Local angling clubs have been actively engaged in discussions with NRW, exploring various hypotheses to understand and address the situation effectively.
Despite thorough inspections by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, no issues with their infrastructure were identified at the location of the discoloured water entry. The ongoing investigations aim to shed light on the exact cause of the river’s unexpected transformation and ensure necessary measures are taken to protect the environment. Paula Harley from NRW confirmed their team’s commitment to investigating the murky discolouration in the Afon Llugwy, emphasising the importance of prompt action in addressing environmental concerns.
As concerns mount regarding the environmental impact of the river’s discolouration, it is essential for authorities to collaborate with local stakeholders to swiftly address the situation and prevent any potential harm to the ecosystem. The community’s vigilance and prompt reporting of such incidents play a crucial role in safeguarding the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Wales’ rivers and waterways. By remaining proactive and attentive to changes in the environment, residents and visitors can contribute to the preservation of these vital resources for future generations to enjoy.