WIND and rain swept through Gwent today with the bad weather set to continue well into the New Year.

The Environment Agency had flood alerts in rivers Ebbw, Sirhowy and Lwyd as the Met Office warned the heavy rain is to carry on into the weekend. Water levels on the rivers Wye and Monnow in Monmouthshire were also rising at midday.

Following prolonged periods of persistent rainfall over the Christmas period, Natural Resources Wales is warning that further heavy rain could cause localised flooding into the New Year.

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.

In many areas, standing water remains on road surfaces so motorists are reminded again to take extra care while travelling.

Due to flooding, both railway lines were blocked between Newport and Hereford today causing replacement buses to be in place.

There were reports of serious flooding in Cwmbran town centre and by the Parkway Hotel, although South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said they had not been called.

Natural Resources Wales is also warning people to be prepared over the coming days as strong winds combined with high tides are likely to cause large waves.

Conditions along the coast, and on coastal roads are likely to be stormy, with sea spray overtopping sea walls and causing a risk of localised flooding.

Officers from Natural Resources Wales are monitoring forecasts closely and are making checks to make sure rivers are free of debris which could cause blockages and lead to flooding.

Officers are also checking coastal defences owned by Natural Resources Wales and working with relevant local authorities to make sure communities are prepared ahead of high tides later this week.

People are urged to take extra care as the unsettled weather continues and being warned by Natural Resources Wales not to attempt to walk or drive through flood water as it can be extremely dangerous.

For information about flood risk, and how to sign up for flood warnings, phone Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk