Residents of a Welsh city have been warned to prepare for smoke from a major wildfire burning in Blaenavon as changing wind conditions are expected to push the plume towards the city.
Fire spread and containment
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) said the blaze at Blaenavon has now spread across around 220 hectares, with firefighters continuing to battle the flames in difficult conditions.
Crews have completed a full containment line around the fire in a bid to stop it spreading further, supported by additional water bowsers supplied by partner agencies and contractors.
Wind shift and smoke direction
However, the service warned that a shift in the wind is expected to send smoke eastwards towards Newport later on Thursday. According to the Met Office, the smoke plume is forecast to rise higher into the atmosphere during the afternoon before drifting towards the city.
As temperatures fall overnight, the smoke is expected to sink lower, increasing the likelihood of it affecting communities on the ground.
Advice for residents
People in areas impacted by the smoke are being advised to stay indoors where possible and keep windows and doors closed. Once the smoke has cleared, residents should open their homes to improve ventilation.
Firefighting operations
Firefighters remain at the scene working across challenging terrain, using specialist wildfire tactics to dampen the fire's perimeter, contain hotspots and prevent any further spread.
A spokesperson for SWFRS said specialist equipment, including 4x4 vehicles, drones and i-cutters, is being used to monitor conditions and support operations. The fire service added that the incident continues to present significant operational challenges, with crews working around the clock in hot, smoky and demanding conditions.
Multi-agency response
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is working alongside Natural Resources Wales, Public Health Wales, Gwent Police and local authorities as efforts continue to bring the wildfire under control.
The public is being urged to avoid the area while firefighting operations remain ongoing.
