Sinkhole Forces Evacuations in Welsh Village Following Storm Bert’s Impact
The village of Pant in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, is grappling with the aftermath of a massive sinkhole that emerged on December 1, following Storm Bert’s heavy rainfall in November. The sinkhole, now measuring 40 feet deep and 33 feet wide, has displaced approximately 30 households, forcing residents to evacuate during the holiday season.
After nearly two weeks of stabilization efforts, the Merthyr Tydfil Council announced progress on Wednesday, reporting the installation of a six-foot steel pipe into the existing culvert to manage water flow and prevent further expansion of the sinkhole. Crews have also started filling the void with stone, restoring utilities to some properties and enabling a few families to return home.
Sheila and Meurig Price, among the first to return, expressed their gratitude for the progress. “It’s nice to get back home and get the heating and television working again,” Mr. Price told the BBC, adding that assurances from local authorities have eased their concerns about safety.
The sinkhole’s formation has been attributed to prolonged heavy rainfall from a series of severe storms, particularly Storm Bert. Other storms, including Darragh and Conall, have caused widespread damage across the U.K., with localized flooding and power outages reported in late November.
Merthyr Tydfil Council remains optimistic about completing repairs and allowing all residents to return by mid-next week. Brent Carter, the council leader, commended the community’s resilience. “Residents have been fantastic and really supportive. Everyone is desperate to come home for Christmas,” Carter told the BBC. “The site is as secure as it possibly can be, and everything is looking good.”
Efforts continue to restore normalcy in the village as authorities work to ensure safety and stability in the affected area.