**Wales: Live News, Travel and Weather Updates on Friday, 11 July**
Wales is waking up to a day packed with breaking news, major developments, and crucial information both locally and further afield. As always, readers across the country are seeking the latest updates on unfolding events, with traffic, weather and urgent headlines continuing to shape the national conversation this Friday.
Early risers began their day with warnings of travel disruption on the M4, after a significant fire erupted near the Newport docks. Motorists faced severe delays, with queues stretching for 24 miles as emergency services responded to the incident under sweltering conditions that reached 30°C. Traffic was held up for an extended period, with two lanes on the eastbound carriageway closed while crews battled the blaze and worked to contain its impact. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly everyday commutes can be derailed by unforeseen events.
While the smoke billowed over Newport, across the country concerns shifted towards the ongoing heatwave. Welsh Water issued urgent pleas for residents to conserve water, anticipating a surge in demand as temperatures soared. As the heat continues to intensify, experts from the Met Office warned that Wales would be experiencing the peak of this spell at the weekend. Detailed local heat maps indicate which communities will bear the brunt, highlighting the importance of preparation.
In other developments, a married couple from Wales found themselves at the centre of a major benefit fraud case. Alan Forsythe, 37, and Jemma Forsythe, 36, were convicted after being exposed for illegally claiming over £50,000 from the Department for Work and Pensions. The couple had openly posted holiday photos on social media that contradicted their claims of living separately, ultimately drawing the attention of investigators.
Meanwhile, a deeply distressing case surfaced with the discovery of the bodies of two babies hidden inside binbags, having been concealed in both an attic and a cupboard. This harrowing revelation has prompted renewed debate regarding safeguarding and community oversight, with authorities continuing their investigation into the circumstances.
Tragedy also struck on Wales’ roads, where it was confirmed that Ceirion Galliers, a former head boy who had only just turned 18, died after being struck by a car while walking along an unlit road in the dark. Such incidents have renewed calls for improved pedestrian safety measures, particularly as evenings remain both mild and busy during the summer months.
Turning to matters of the future, the Welsh Government revealed plans for three major new wind farms. The scheme aims to provide renewable electricity to 350,000 homes, as part of an ambitious drive to see Wales generate 70% of its energy from green sources by 2030, and to reach 100% by 2035. These installations, once operational, will alter the nation’s skylines and are expected to play a pivotal role in changing the energy landscape.
On the crime front, a violent incident left a teenager fighting for his life, prompting the police to increase patrols throughout the affected area. Authorities have also issued strong warnings urging the public not to circulate footage of the incident, as investigations continue. Community cohesion and online responsibility remain central themes in their appeals.
Finally, in Porthcawl, concern is mounting for the safety of a 12-year-old girl named Olivia, who has been missing for five days. Police have launched a major appeal for information and are urging anyone with details of her whereabouts to come forward, reflecting once again the importance of public support in such cases.
As Wales faces another eventful day, with challenges spanning traffic, crime, weather extremes and community crises, residents remain steadfastly tuned in—relying on continual updates to navigate whatever the day may bring.