Multi-agency effort rescues four after vehicle overturns at Claerwen Reservoir
Four people were rescued, with one airlifted to hospital, after a car overturned close to an Elan Valley reservoir sparking a multi-agency response.
Multiple fire crews and emergency services were called to the scene on Thursday, January 2 after a car crashed near the Claerwen Reservoir.
Five different fire crews responded as part of a multi-agency response also including the police, mountain rescue teams, and a coastguard helicopter. The vehicle was found close to the water’s edge.
A Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “At 3.54pm on Thursday, January 2, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Rhayader, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, Welshpool and Aberystwyth Fire Stations responded to an incident at the Claerwen Reservoir in the Elan Valley, Rhayader.
“Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving one private motor vehicle and four casualties.
"The vehicle had overturned and come to rest on its side near the edge of the reservoir.
“This incident was especially challenging due to the lack of light, difficult terrain, proximity to the water’s edge, poor radio and phone signal and icy conditions.
"This incident required a multi-agency response, with Dyfed-Powys Police, Welsh Ambulance Services Trust, Brecon Mountain Rescue and Coastguard personnel also in attendance.”
The fire service confirmed that one of the casualties was later airlifted to hospital by Coastguard Helicopter.
The Fire and Rescue Service crews left the scene at 8.52pm and a multi-agency debrief was later held at Rhayader Fire Station.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is advising drivers to extra take care in difficult driving conditions.
The spokesperson for the service added: “Winter, of all the seasons, requires the most care and attention if you are going to stay safe on the roads.
“Making simple preparations to your vehicle whilst also considering the current weather and road conditions, planning routes ahead of setting off and adapting your driving style to suit the conditions will all help reduce the risks this winter.”
