LandslideMitigation Sinkholes GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

Recent Geotechnical Challenges in Wales: Tackling Landslides and Sinkholes Head-On

*Significant sinkhole in Nant Morlais, forced the evacuation of 30 homes. Source: BBC (image by Merthyr Tydfil council)*

Wales recently experienced a series of severe geohazards caused by Storm Bert, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure resilience. From sinkholes to landslides, communities have been shaken by these natural disasters, underscoring the critical role of geotechnical engineering in mitigating such risks.

The Nant Morlais Sinkhole: A Community Displaced

A collapsed culvert in Nant Morlais, Merthyr Tydfil, triggered a significant sinkhole, forcing the evacuation of 30 homes. The sudden event, exacerbated by heavy rainfall, has rendered the cul-de-sac unsafe, with authorities swiftly closing the area. Emergency response teams have been working round the clock to stabilize the site and ensure public safety. This incident demonstrates the hidden vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure and the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance.

Cwmtillery Landslide: A River of Debris

In Cwmtillery, a landslide from a coal tip unleashed a cascade of mud, rocks, and trees onto local streets, damaging homes and vehicles. Classified as a Category D tip—the highest risk level—this coal tip failure raised concerns about the adequacy of current safety measures. Residents described the chaos as "carnage," with some families needing emergency shelter and facing uncertainty about returning to their homes. The event has reignited calls for increased funding to rehabilitate abandoned coal tips, a legacy of Wales’ mining history.

In Cwmtillery, a landslide from a coal tip unleashed a cascade of mud, rocks, and trees onto local streets, damaging homes and vehicles. Source: BBC

The Path Forward: Strengthening Geotechnical Resilience

Both incidents highlight the importance of geotechnical expertise in disaster prevention.

From regular inspections to advanced monitoring technologies, engineers play a pivotal role in identifying risks and developing mitigation strategies. Moreover, integrating nature-based solutions, such as drainage improvements and vegetation management, could enhance the stability of vulnerable sites.

As extreme weather events become more frequent, investment in geotechnical solutions is crucial to safeguard communities and infrastructure.

More information on the Storm Bert flooding is shown in the following video.