The Welsh Government has activated "crisis management arrangements" in response to a large number of significant wildfires in recent days. Firefighters across Wales have spent hundreds of hours fighting huge fires, affecting areas as big as thousands of sport pitches.
No Helicopter Support Available
The government said it had been told by the Ministry of Defence that there are no helicopters available to help crews on the ground tackle the blazes, something which has drawn criticism from residents and farmers in areas affected by wildfires.
The Welsh Government has now confirmed that there is "no aerial support" available in the UK.
"The MOD has informed us that there is no aerial support available for anywhere in the UK and urgent discussions are now under way both within Wales and at a UK level to identify how this can be resolved," a government spokesman said.
Blaenavon Wildfire
Firefighters have spent days trying to bring some of the fires under control, including a significant near Blaenavon in south Wales. People have been warned to keep their doors and windows shut as smoke from the fire travels more than 30 miles away. People in Newport, Caerphilly, Cardiff and Rhondda Cynon Taf have all complained about the smell of smoke in the area over recent days.
Crews were first called to the mountain above Blaenavon on Sunday evening, and have remained at the scene ever since. The wildfire is expected to continue burning for multiple days.
On Wednesday, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the fire remains "significant". It is covering more than 200 hectares of land, which is roughly equivalent to around 300 football pitches. The front firefighters are trying to control is 5km.
Fire Service Statement
A statement from the fire service read: "Crews continue to tackle the fire across mixed terrain and vegetation including fern, gorse and bracken. A range of specialist tactics are being used to mitigate and minimise the spread of the fire, including cutting fire breaks and carrying out controlled burns.
"Specialist equipment on scene includes 4x4 vehicles, drones and i-cutters, which are being used to help manage vegetation and support firefighting operations.
"Members of the public are advised to avoid the area. Anyone affected by smoke should keep windows and doors closed. As wind conditions change, smoke may affect different parts of South Wales at different times throughout the day.
"The incident began on Sunday and continues to present significant challenges for crews working in hot, smoky, and humid conditions both day and night.
"SWFRS would like to thank partner agencies for their ongoing support, including Natural Resources Wales, Public Health Wales, local authorities, local health boards and police. All agencies continue to work together to bring the incident to a safe conclusion."
Harlech Wildfire and Wider Response
A Welsh Government spokesman said: "The Welsh Government has activated its crisis management arrangements to coordinate the response to wildfires across Wales. Officials are working closely with partner agencies at both the Harlech and Blaenavon incidents."
Fire crews in north Wales have been battling a fire at Harlech which first broke out on Sunday, July 12. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it had made a request for helicopter support last week, but had been told there would be none available for a number of days.
"While helicopters can usefully contribute to fighting wildfires in some situations, they are by no means a universal or complete solution," the Welsh Government spokesman said. "The main and most effective means of fighting wildfires is at ground level, and that is exactly what our firefighters are doing with great skill and dedication. We will review current arrangements to ensure we have the right support available across Wales."
