Businesses and residents across Monmouthshire and Herefordshire are beginning to pick up the pieces after Storm Claudia swept through the region, leaving a trail of flooding, disruption, and uncertainty in its wake. The storm, which prompted a major incident declaration, brought high river levels and deep surface water flooding to both counties, forcing emergency services and local authorities into action and sparking a wave of community resilience efforts.
On November 25, 2025, Monmouthshire County Council announced a significant financial support package for local businesses battered by the floods. According to official council statements, grants of up to £3,000 will now be available to help businesses get back on their feet. Funding for this initiative comes directly from the Welsh Government, which has pledged to stand by Monmouthshire’s business community during the difficult recovery ahead.
"We recognise the damage done to businesses in the county by the extreme flooding associated with Storm Claudia," said Monmouthshire County Council Leader, Councillor Mary Ann Brocklesby. "We know how hard our businesses are working to operate and trade once again, and we applaud the outstanding efforts of business owners and their staff. Every citizen of Monmouthshire benefits from having businesses which can thrive on our high streets. The financial support that we can now offer to businesses will be funded by the Welsh Government. I thank the Welsh Government Cabinet Secretaries and civil servants for their effort in working with us to agree the scheme of financial support."
The Welsh Government’s commitment doesn’t stop at business support. In a statement released on November 26, 2025, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans emphasized the importance of rapid, practical assistance. "Storm Claudia has had a devastating impact on businesses in Monmouth. This additional funding will provide practical support to help affected businesses recover. We are committed to standing with Monmouthshire’s business community during this difficult time and we will continue to work closely with Monmouthshire County Council to ensure help reaches those who need it most," Evans said.
In total, more than £2.5 million has already been made available by the Welsh Government following the storm, with the latest round of grants forming part of a broader package of emergency relief. This includes not only the £3,000 business grants but also initial support for residents: £500 for households with insurance and £1,000 for those without. Additional measures cover emergency response costs—such as evacuations, food provision, waste removal, and equipment hire—as well as discretionary council tax reductions and non-domestic rates relief for affected properties.
For Monmouthshire residents and businesses looking for more information or to apply for support, the council has set up a dedicated Storm Claudia webpage, regularly updated with eligibility details and further guidance. Residents can also visit the Humanitarian Centre at Shire Hall for in-person assistance, while updates continue to be shared across the council’s social media channels.
Meanwhile, the recovery effort is well underway in Herefordshire, where the effects of Storm Claudia were felt just as keenly. On November 26, 2025, Herefordshire Council reported that multiple agencies—including Balfour Beatty, West Mercia Police, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, West Midlands Ambulance Service, and health partners—had worked tirelessly through the weekend to protect residents, particularly those most vulnerable to the floods.
Councillor Dan Hurcomb, cabinet member for local engagement and community resilience, summed up the mood in Herefordshire: "We have all been shocked and saddened to see the impact of Storm Claudia, which caused flooding and disruption to some parts of the county, and our thoughts are with those directly affected." He extended thanks to all council and emergency services staff for their "tireless efforts."
Herefordshire residents and businesses affected by the flooding can access a range of financial support mechanisms. These include the Build Back Better - FloodRE scheme, council tax discretionary hardship payments, business rates hardship relief, and emergency relief funds. Full details and application forms are available on the Herefordshire Council’s website.
Despite the challenges, signs of resilience are already emerging on Monmouth’s high street. Some traders have managed to reopen their doors—at least partially. Paws pet shop and the Boat House Gallery, both located in the Oldway Centre, have reopened their ground floors, welcoming customers back. Others, like Hair By Jones and Harts ladieswear shop, are operating from upper floors while awaiting the relaying of waterlogged floors before a full reopening can take place.
There’s also been good news for Monnow Bridge Fish and Chips, which had initially been told by their telephone provider that phone line charges would continue despite the disruption. BT has since confirmed that payments will be frozen for six months, offering a small but welcome reprieve. The Beacon has reached out for clarification on whether this relief will extend to all traders and homeowners affected by the floods.
The spirit of community support is strong. The Monmouthshire Building Society has committed thousands of pounds through its Charitable Foundation to help local businesses and community groups via the Monmouthshire Re-Building Society Fund. Organizations in need of help are invited to apply through the society’s website using a short application form. Additionally, the Monmouth Town Council Mayor’s Fund is offering grants of up to £2,000 for residents, independent businesses, and community groups hit by the floods. This support can be used for essentials ranging from emergency equipment and replacement items to utility bill support and broader community response needs.
As the region moves from the immediate aftermath toward recovery, authorities are urging those affected to make use of the resources available. Both Monmouthshire and Herefordshire councils have emphasized the importance of applying for support and staying informed through official channels. The recovery process, while daunting, is being buoyed by a combination of government funding, local resilience, and community solidarity.
With floodwaters receding and businesses slowly reopening, the long-term impact of Storm Claudia is still being assessed. Yet, the coordinated response from councils, government bodies, emergency services, and local organizations offers hope that Monmouthshire and Herefordshire will emerge stronger, their communities fortified by the shared experience and the support now flowing in.
