MORE than 1,000 homes have lost power today across Monmouthshire as Storm Ciara sweeps through Gwent.

Western Power Distribution are reporting that it hopes to have power restored by 5.30pm at the latest, but 520 homes in northern-Abergavenny, near Mardy, are not expected to gain power until around 10.30pm. 

Homes in Usk without power amount to 513, with power expected to return to a bulk of the homes affected by 7pm. 

In Chepstow, 320 homes are thought to be without power, which should be resolved by 8.30pm. 

In Devauden, 28 homes are without power and are expected to be until at least 3am. 

In St Arvans, 336 homes are without power and are expected to resume normality by 8pm at the latest.

Highways England has closed the M48 Severn Bridge to all traffic in both directions due to the winds. 

A diversion is in place around the M4 Prince of Wales bridge.

Free Press Series: An empty M48 Severn Bridge. Picture: Highways EnglandAn empty M48 Severn Bridge. Picture: Highways England

Highways England said it would re-open the M48 bridge when safe.

Rising river levels and fallen trees have also affected the county, with residents capturing the issues throughout the day.

Residents sent in pictures of fallen trees throughout the county at Bigsweir Bridge, Raglan Garden Centre and the Mitel roundabout in Caldicot. 

Free Press Series: Picture: Kath LoderPicture: Kath Loder

One amber flood alert is in place in the county, with water levels on the River Usk rising quickly.

Natural Resources Wales is reporting that peak levels are expected this evening.

Free Press Series: Tree down at Mitel roundabout in Caldicot. Picture: Lee Farrands.Tree down at Mitel roundabout in Caldicot. Picture: Lee Farrands.

More details on flooding in the county can be found at https://naturalresources.wales/flooding?lang=en. 

Transport for Wales has advised that people stay regularly updated if they are travelling today, and have also said travellers can get a refund if they decide not to risk the journey.

Free Press Series: Tintern Abbey (above) and Raglan Castle are closed today due to Storm Ciara.Tintern Abbey (above) and Raglan Castle are closed today due to Storm Ciara.

Transport for Wales will also refund your ticket if you decide to turn back while on your journey. 

You can find more information on refunds at https://www.journeycheck.com/tfwrail/.