Storms to mark start of 2014 forecasters warn
A railway line was flooded earlier this week just south of Aberdare More heavy rain and gales are expected to mark the start of 2014 with forecasters warning of possible flooding.
It could mean more misery for householders still reeling from the effects of the Boxing Day storm and Monday's high winds and rain.
A Met Office 'be aware' warning of rain is in place for much of the southern half of Wales during New Year's Day.
Along with the rain, gusts of 50-60mph are expected to cause further problems.
The Met Office said the rain would spread north quickly on Wednesday with rainfall totals expected to be 10-20mm, but as much as 30-40mm over some south-facing coasts and hills.
With the ground already saturated, this could lead to further localised flooding.
The yellow weather warning includes most of south Wales, although the Met Office said there were still "some uncertainties in the detail" and people were advised to continue to watch for further updates.
A Met Office forecaster said: "Another active Atlantic frontal system and deepening area of low pressure is expected to push northeastwards across the UK on Wednesday, followed by active troughs.
"A combination of strong winds and very moist air will give locally significant rainfall accumulations especially over south-facing coasts and hills.
Localised flooding and fallen trees affected travellers on Monday "South east England is particularly prone to further flooding.
"The more persistent rain should clear eastwards later on Wednesday and overnight into Thursday, but heavy showers will follow on."
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) said the rain was likely to be heaviest across south, mid and west Wales.
"River levels continue to stay high and ground remains saturated following heavy rainfall over the Christmas period, meaning that further rainfall may cause rivers to rise again quickly," said a spokesperson.
"In many areas standing water remains on road surfaces so motorists are reminded again to take extra care whilst travelling."
BBC Wales weather presenter Sue Charles looks at the New Year forecast
People living near coastline in south and west Wales are also warned to be prepared as strong winds combined with high tides are likely to cause large waves.
NRW said officers were monitoring rivers to try to prevent debris creating blockages that could lead to flooding.
Sea defences are also being checked ahead of high tides later this week.
"People are urged to take extra care as the unsettled weather continues and should never attempt to walk or drive through flood water as it can be extremely dangerous," the spokesperson added.
On Monday there was travel disruption across Wales as trees came down in high winds, and localised flooding closed roads and railway lines.
A number of flood alerts remain in force, with one flood warning for the Lower Dee Valley from Llangollen to Trevalyn Meadows at 16:35 GMT.
Gales on Boxing Day led to thousands of people being left without electricity, with Anglesey and Gwynedd hardest hit.
ScottishPower had reconnected more than 20,000 properties by Saturday evening, while others did not get their power back until Sunday.
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