**Driver Avoids Injury After Tree Topples Onto Car Amid Storm in North Wales**
A motorist in Gwynedd had a narrow escape on Monday evening, after gale-force winds from Storm Floris resulted in a tree collapsing onto their car on a frequently travelled road. The incident, which occurred on the A497 near the market town of Porthmadog, brought traffic to a standstill and led to a temporary closure of the key route.
North Wales Police officers were swiftly on the scene following reports that a tree had come down across the road, striking a vehicle in the Treflys area, situated between Porthmadog and Criccieth. Emergency services confirmed that, despite the dramatic images from the scene and the potential for serious harm, no injuries were sustained in the incident.
The accident happened just after 5pm, at a time when the region was still experiencing strong winds left in the wake of Storm Floris. Earlier in the day, local weather stations had recorded gusts reaching as high as 64mph in areas such as Aberdaron and Capel Curig. Forecasters had warned of treacherous conditions due to the departing storm, highlighting the risk posed by loose debris and unstable trees.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of confusion and concern as traffic built up along the A497. With the road blocked by the fallen tree, motorists stepped from their vehicles to gauge the situation, while some drivers attempted to reverse away from the site of the incident. The location, near the railway bridge close to Wern Manor, is known for being surrounded by dense woodland, a factor which may have contributed to the hazard.
An image circulating on social media captured the aftermath: a queue of cars and vans at a standstill, with drivers gathered on the tarmac. Community members shared updates online, relaying their experiences and warning others to steer clear of the blocked road until it was safe to return.
North Wales Police issued an advisory statement urging road users to avoid the area while the tree was being cleared. “At 5.08pm we received a report a tree had fallen on the A497 in Treflys, Porthmadog, which struck a car. No injuries were reported. The road was cleared by 6.13pm,” a spokesperson explained.
Interestingly, the Welsh Ambulance Service and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service were not called to attend the scene, underscoring the absence of injuries and the swift containment of the situation by police. Traffic was diverted for just over an hour, with the road reopening to motorists once the obstruction had been removed and it was deemed safe for passage.
The A497 is a vital connector for communities in this scenic part of north-west Wales, linking coastal towns and serving as an important artery for both local residents and tourists. Road closures, especially during peak seasons, can cause significant disruption, highlighting the critical nature of rapid response from police and public authorities during such incidents.
Storm Floris has sparked renewed discussions in Wales around the ongoing need for tree maintenance, especially along roads which border dense woodland. With adverse weather events becoming more frequent, roadside safety is being pushed higher on the agenda for councils and highways agencies.
As the clean-up continues, motorists travelling through Gwynedd are being reminded to exercise caution during windy conditions and to heed weather warnings. The events on the A497 serve as a timely reminder of the unpredictable dangers brought by storms and the importance of vigilance while travelling.