Residents and businesses in Abertillery, Abersychan and Newbridge have been urged to keep their windows and doors closed as a significant plume of smoke from the ongoing Blaenavon wildfire spreads across the area.
Smoke from the major wildfire has spread across South Wales over the last two days, with people reporting the smell from 30 miles away.
Fire Service Issues Updated Warning
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) issued an updated warning on Tuesday afternoon as firefighters continue to tackle the blaze, which has been ongoing since Sunday evening and has now burned around 80 hectares of mixed land.
Earlier on Tuesday, the fire service warned people in parts of South Wales, including Caerphilly, Cardiff and Newport, to shut their windows and doors after a change in wind direction carried smoke from the wildfire across the region.
Smoke Shifts to Valleys
The latest update indicates the smoke plume has now shifted, affecting communities in the valleys. A spokesperson for SWFRS said: "A significant plume of smoke from the ongoing wildfire in the Blaenavon area is impacting areas including Abertillery, Abersychan and Newbridge."
"SWFRS is advising residents and businesses in those areas to keep their windows and doors shut and take particular care. Crews, supported by specially trained and highly skilled wildfire officers, are continuing to tackle the wildfire which is impacting around 80 hectares of mixed land."
Firefighting Efforts Continue
Firefighters have been battling the blaze since it broke out on Sunday evening, working in challenging conditions caused by weather, access and changing wind conditions. More than 40 firefighters are tackling the blaze, which has spread across around 80 hectares of common and pasture land, while protecting nearby properties.
The fire service has urged people to stay away from the area to allow emergency crews to continue their work safely. It has also asked the public not to call 999 simply to report the smell or sight of smoke unless they believe they have spotted a separate fire. The wildfire remains ongoing.
