Since Friday, 7 August, crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) have been responding to a significant wildfire at Llangynidr Reservoir near Ebbw Vale.
Throughout the weekend and continuing into this morning (Monday, 10 August), firefighters from both Services have worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, focusing on key operational activity to limit its spread and protect surrounding land.
The fire currently covers an estimated 400 hectares.
Several fire appliances remain at the scene, supported by specialist resources including water bowsers, all-terrain vehicles, 4x4 vehicles and national resilience assets.
Following ongoing assessments of weather conditions, the operating environment, and the most effective tactics and resources required, a helicopter continues to support ground crews in tackling the fire.
Due to a change in wind direction this morning, smoke from the wildfire is now affecting areas including Blaenavon, Brynmawr, Pontypool and Newport.
Residents may notice an increase in the presence and smell of smoke. Emergency services and partner agencies are monitoring the situation closely and are asking members of the public to take appropriate precautions if affected by smoke, 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 several more days, with the operational response continuing to be reviewed and adapted as conditions change.
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 assess risks, share information, coordinate resources, and agree the most appropriate actions to manage the incident and minimise its impact on the land, local communities and the wider environment.
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 is causing disruption for residents and thank local communities for their continued patience, understanding and cooperation while emergency services work to bring the wildfire under control.
Llangynidr Reservoir wildfire. Copyright SWFRS.