NRW argues Wales’ geography makes it particularly vulnerable – with a vast coastline and “fast-responding” rivers which can fill at speed as rain runs off steep terrain in places like the south Wales valleys.
The official report also recommended a review into whether Monmouth town centre defences are fit for purpose.
“We’re looking at our flood modelling and if there’s anything else that can be done,” said Sara Pearson of NRW.
“We’re seeing flooding that we’ve never experienced before and with climate change that’s set to increase. We can’t prevent flooding, but we can help minimise the impact.”
The Welsh Government has said it is spending almost £1.4m in flood risk management in Monmouthshire, including £700,000 of NRW funding for works at nearby Skenfrith.
“We have made £85m available this year to Natural Resources Wales and local authorities for flood and coastal erosion schemes across Wales,” the government said in a statement.
NRW have said they’ve done work to clear rivers while the local council insist they’ve got more workers out clearing ditches, gullies and drains.
