**Wales News: Weather Update, Traffic Alerts, Venomous Snake Warning, and More – Monday, 28 April**
Monday in Wales arrives with a tapestry of developing stories, breaking news and crucial updates spanning local events, the latest from the law courts, weather forecasts and important public safety alerts. As spring continues to advance, communities across the nation are getting ready for warmer days, but also keeping a watchful eye on evolving weather conditions and notable incidents.
To start the week, Wales has been enjoying unseasonably bright and warm conditions. The Met Office has confirmed a stretch of sunshine and high temperatures across the region, with the mercury expected to comfortably sit in the mid-20s (Celsius) for some parts. However, the forecasters have advised that the spell of settled weather won’t last much longer. From early May, Wales is predicted to face a notable change, as cooler air arrives from the north and a risk of heavy, thundery downpours increases. While the opening days of May may remain largely dry for many, more unsettled and showery conditions, punctuated by thundery outbursts, could soon take hold. Residents are advised to make the most of the current sunshine before grey clouds inevitably gather.
In a significant legal development, a sentencing hearing is underway at Swansea Crown Court. The case centres on a teenage girl from Ammanford, who attacked two teachers and a fellow pupil at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman. Shocking the local community, the attacks occurred during a morning break, when the girl used her father’s multi-tool to inflict serious injuries on deputy head Fiona Elias, teacher Liz Hopkin, and another girl. Earlier this year she was found guilty of three counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article. The presiding judge delayed sentencing in order to fully consider all available information about the defendant. The community waits anxiously as today’s sentencing aims to bring some resolution to one of the most troubling incidents in local education in recent years.
Meanwhile, parents, staff and pupils across Wales continue to reflect on the wider implications that such an event holds for school security, mental health support and youth safety. The case highlights difficult questions about how society can better safeguard schools, while ensuring vulnerable young people receive the care they need.
Elsewhere, budget supermarket giant Lidl has unveiled ambitious expansion plans across Wales. The retailer has published its latest ‘wish list’ of 43 towns and communities where it hopes to open new stores. While not every location on the list will necessarily see a Lidl built, this move illustrates strong confidence in the Welsh retail sector and growing demand from consumers for more affordable supermarket options. The company is actively calling for property agents and landowners to suggest suitable sites, signalling potential new jobs and increased competition on the high street.
Public safety is also top of mind in coastal Swansea, where South Wales Police have issued a warning after a noticeable increase in sightings of venomous adders – the UK’s only type of dangerous snake. The reptiles have been spotted at Port Eynon and around Rhossili, prompting officers to urge dog walkers to keep their pets on leads and to be extra vigilant, especially in sand dunes and hillside areas favoured by adders. With the snake’s active season continuing until October, those venturing outdoors are reminded to check themselves and their animals for adder bites and to seek immediate veterinary advice in case of any incidents.
On the roads, drivers are advised of disruption on a major transport link. One lane of the Prince of Wales Bridge remains closed due to ongoing resurfacing work. The contraflow system, affecting traffic between Junction 22 (M49) and Junction 23 (M48), is expected to cause some delays, with further overnight closures scheduled until the end of May. Commuters are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys.
A separate and deeply concerning story comes from Cardiff, where police have issued an appeal for information following the disappearance of a 13-year-old boy named Jordan, who was last seen in the Rumney area on Sunday evening. Described as being of large build with distinctive hair – black with ginger streaks – and last seen in sportswear, officers are asking local residents to check CCTV and doorbell footage for any clues as to his whereabouts. Anyone with information is urged to contact South Wales Police urgently.
These stories, encompassing everything from anticipated summer storms and high-profile courts cases to community safety alerts and retail expansion, collectively reflect the diversity of life and the range of challenges facing communities in Wales at the start of a new week. Welsh residents are reminded to remain attentive to updates from authorities, make the most of the sunshine while it lasts, and look out for their neighbours as events unfold.