A major incident has been declared in Monmouth, Wales, after the Storm Claudia unleashed heavy rainfall that caused the River Monnow to burst its banks, inundating homes, businesses and roads.

The deluge followed overnight downpours of nearly 120 mm in some locations, with the town centre transformed into a flood-zone as vehicles floated and residents were from their properties.

Emergency services responded to dozens of rescue operations, with some inhabitants evacuated to an improvised shelter in a local library.

In the early hours, the fire and rescue service confirmed that more than 80 flood-related incidents had been recorded and estimated that around 685 homes were without power in the Monmouth area.

Natural Resources Wales has issued four “severe” flood warnings—designated as “danger to life”—and dozens of additional alerts remain across south-east Wales.

In England, the Environment Agency reports nearly fifty active flood warnings, with more than 130 flood alerts still in effect.

The storm’s impact extends beyond Wales.

In Portugal, an eighty-five-year-old British tourist died after extreme winds struck a holiday campsite, while in England and Wales rail services were disrupted, trees brought down and power cuts widespread.

The Met Office has forecast a cold snap following the storm, warning of frigid Arctic air, widespread frost and the possibility of snow with temperatures likely dipping to minus seven degrees Celsius.

Authorities are urging the public to stay clear of flood-hit zones, avoid flooded roads and heed official flood-warning messages.

With rivers still rising and infrastructure under strain, emergency teams remain on high alert in affected communities.