Pic: Llangynidr Reservoir wildfire. Copyright SWFRS.
The wildfire at Llangynidr Reservoir near Ebbw Vale is now considered to be under control following significant progress made by Firefighters and partner agencies over recent days.
As a result, the decision has been taken to downgrade the incident from a Major Incident.
Crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) remain at the scene, supported by specialist resources, as work continues to extinguish remaining hotspots, prevent re-ignition and ensure the area is safe.
Thanks to the sustained efforts of firefighters and partner agencies involved in the response, significant progress has been made in containing the wildfire, limiting its spread and protecting surrounding land and local communities.
Following ongoing assessments of weather conditions, the operating environment and the most effective tactics and resources required, it has also been determined that helicopter support is no longer required.
While the incident remains ongoing, crews from both Fire and Rescue Services will maintain a robust presence at the scene as work continues to bring the wildfire to a safe conclusion.
There has been a significant reduction in smoke levels today as firefighting operations continue to make progress. However, some smoke is likely to remain visible for the foreseeable future while crews continue to extinguish hotspots and dampen down affected areas.
Emergency services and partner agencies are continuing to monitor conditions closely, including any impact on local communities.
Residents in the vicinity of the incident may continue to notice the presence and smell of smoke from time to time and are encouraged to take appropriate precautions, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, older people and young children.
Air quality, weather conditions and the wider impact on local communities are being continually assessed as part of the multi-agency response, and operational tactics will be adapted as required.
Firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for the foreseeable future while work continues to fully extinguish the fire and ensure the area is safe.
Road closures remain in place and members of the public are urged to respect diversion routes and restrictions to ensure emergency services have the space and access needed to carry out their work safely and effectively.
A multi-agency Tactical Coordination Group established in response to the incident remains active. Partner organisations continue to work closely together to coordinate the ongoing response, assess risks and support affected communities.
Natural Resources Wales will also work closely with Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority to assess the environmental impact of the wildfire, including any effects on local habitats and species. As the incident moves into the recovery phase, partners will consider what restoration and recovery work may be required in the months and years ahead.
Public Safety Advice
To support the ongoing emergency response and protect public safety, members of the public are asked to follow this advice:
- Stay away from the affected area to allow emergency services to operate safely and effectively.
- Do not ignore or move road closure signs. They are in place for your safety and to ensure emergency services can access and operate in the area safely.
- Avoid flying drones in the area, as they can disrupt emergency operations and pose a risk to aircraft supporting the incident.
- Take extra care when travelling, as smoke may affect visibility in some areas.
- Limit time spent outdoors where smoke is particularly noticeable.
- If wildfire smoke is affecting your area, stay indoors where possible and keep windows and doors closed. Once the smoke has cleared and it is safe to do so, open windows and doors to help ventilate your home.
- Those with respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD should ensure they have access to any medication they may require and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
Partner agencies are continuing to monitor the impact of smoke on local communities and will provide further updates should conditions change.
We appreciate that the incident has caused disruption for residents and would like to thank local communities for their patience, understanding and cooperation. We also recognise the dedication of firefighters, partner agencies and all those involved in the response, whose efforts have enabled significant progress to be made in bringing the wildfire under control and downgrading the incident from a Major Incident. Their continued work will ensure the incident is brought to a safe conclusion as quickly as possible.
