WORK is ongoing to clear a trail of destruction left in the wake of Storm Arwen along the A484 at Cynwyl Elfed.

Carmarthenshire County Council has had to bring in specialist contractors to help with the removal of over 60 large trees damaged during the storm on November 27.

A section of road between Bronwydd and Cynwyl Elfed will remain closed until next week whilst the clearance work continues.

Specialist equipment is being used to clear and make the area safe.

It is the largest tree clearance operation the council has faced in the wake of a high-wind storm event.

It is thought the northerly direction of the strong 60mph gusts of wind is to blame for the extensive damage which left trees on the hillside unusually exposed.

The road closure has meant a lengthy diversion for drivers passing through from Carmarthen to Newcastle Emlyn.

The council is working closely with contractors to minimise the disruption and to maintain safe access for residents living within the stretch of road closed off.

Cllr Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Storm Arwen resulted in a number of trees being brought down onto our roads throughout the county, but the A484 was particularly affected and a section south of Cynwyl Elfed had to be closed for safety reasons.

“We have two specialist contractors working on site to clear the road and make it safe to reopen as soon as possible, but this will take some time.

“This is a challenging situation and we are working hard to ensure the road is safe to open as soon as possible but please bear with us if there are any delays.

"We will provide an update as soon as we can.”

Carmarthenshire County Council’s highways team recorded 150 fallen trees - and 30 other weather related incidents in just 24 hours during the storm.

The council’s out of hours staff dealt with hundreds of calls and staff were mobilised throughout the night and day to deal with the damage caused by the high winds.

Further information about highway problems, and how to report an emergency, can be found at www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales