Five years have passed since the devastating Storm Dennis flooding, yet for one resident of Treforest, Pontypridd, the fear and trauma of that event linger on with no visible changes in flood prevention measures. Ceri Loveridge and her husband live on Egypt Street, constantly on edge whenever it rains, always wary of the river’s water levels after enduring two significant floodings, one during Storm Dennis in February 2020 and another during Storm Bert in November 2024. Despite being warned when their home is already flooded, Ceri describes feeling helpless and forgotten by authorities in preparing for and preventing future floods.
In the aftermath of the floods, the Loveridge family, like many others in Rhondda Cynon Taf, have faced ongoing challenges in rebuilding their lives and homes. Their mental health has been severely impacted, with Ceri expressing how the constant fear and anxiety from potential floods have taken a toll on her family. The lack of adequate support and resources to address the psychological trauma caused by the flooding has left many residents feeling abandoned and vulnerable in the face of future weather events.
Heledd Fychan, the MS for the area, acknowledges the widespread mental health issues resulting from the repeated flooding incidents and the inadequate support provided to affected communities. Many residents, including Ceri and her family, have been left to deal with the aftermath of the floods on their own, struggling with anxiety and stress due to the persistent threat of flooding. The absence of specialised counselling and comprehensive flood prevention measures exacerbate the already fragile state of mental health in these communities.
Despite assurances and promises of improved flood defences and support structures post-Storm Dennis, Ceri’s experience reflects a stark reality where little has changed, leaving vulnerable residents at the mercy of nature. The failure of flood warnings to reach residents in a timely manner, coupled with ineffective flood prevention measures, has perpetuated a cycle of fear and uncertainty for families like the Loveridges, who continue to live in fear of future flooding incidents.
The frustration and disillusionment of residents are palpable as they recount their experiences of loss, trauma, and neglect in the wake of natural disasters. Ceri’s account of the repeated flooding incidents, inadequate support systems, and lack of mental health resources paints a grim picture of the ongoing struggle faced by communities impacted by flooding. The narrative of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity is tinged with disappointment and a sense of abandonment by authorities tasked with protecting and supporting these vulnerable populations.
As Ceri and her family contemplate selling their home, the lingering trauma and uncertainty surrounding future flood risks weigh heavily on their decision. The failure of authorities to implement effective flood prevention measures and provide adequate support reflect a broader systemic issue that undermines community resilience and exacerbates the mental health challenges faced by flood-affected residents. The five-year mark since Storm Dennis serves as a sombre reminder of the enduring impact of natural disasters on individuals and communities, highlighting the need for proactive measures and comprehensive support frameworks to mitigate future risks and safeguard the well-being of those at risk of flooding.