Natural Resources Wales is asking people to be alert for flooding as heavy rain is expected across Wales later this week (Friday into Saturday morning).

Storm Callum will bring strong winds and heavy and persistent rain, with the highest totals in south and southwest Wales, which could cause local rivers to rise. It could also affect roads, and cause flooding from drains, ditches and small streams.

NRW is also monitoring weather conditions at sea as the storm could also cause flooding with large waves, strong winds and a tidal surge.

NRW’s emergency response teams are preparing for the storm and are out checking flood defences are in good working order, clearing gulleys and ditches and installing temporary defences to protect communities as much as possible.

Natural Resources Wales will issue Flood Alerts and Warnings if rivers reach trigger levels with teams monitoring rivers levels 24 hours a day.

Gary White, NRW’s duty tactical manager, said: “The current forecasted rain could cause flooding this week, especially in south and west Wales, and we are urging people to prepare themselves.

“Making sure you know what the situation is like where you live is really important. You can check our website or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for any Flood Warnings that may be in place and keep an eye on weather reports and local news for details of any disruption in your area.

“Our teams are doing all they can to reduce the risk for communities, but if there is flooding we want to make sure people are doing all they can to keep themselves safe.”

People are advised to take extra care and allow extra time for their journey as driving conditions may be hazardous. People should also avoid walking or driving through any flood waters as it can be extremely dangerous. People should also avoid fast flowing rivers and streams as they could get swept away and avoid coastal areas.

Flood alerts and flood warnings are updated on the Natural Resources Wales website every 15 minutes and are available to view at www.naturalresources.wales/flooding

Information and updates are also available via Natural Resources Wales’s twitter account: @natreswales