Fire crews spent Monday night dealing with more wildfires, including a significant blaze on Maerdy Mountain, as anger grows over the continuing fires. Dramatic images showed flames spreading across the mountainside.
Another wildfire in Cymmer, Porth, came close to properties, with firefighters protecting homes as the blaze was brought under control. Cymmer Road was closed between the recycling centre and Dinas Flats. Huge plumes of smoke and flames could also be seen for miles around over the Swansea Valley.
MP voices anger over ongoing fires
On Monday night, Rhondda MP Sir Chris Bryant spoke out about his “deep anger” at the continuing fires, warning that they are damaging the landscape, threatening homes and putting emergency crews at risk.
He said: “I am deeply angry to see more mountain fires tonight. As a result, there are road closures in place causing more disruption for residents.
“After weeks of fires across our communities, our firefighters and emergency services should not have to be heading back out again, putting themselves in danger and spending yet more time tackling fires that devastate our mountains and wildlife.
“These fires are not harmless. They spread rapidly, threaten homes, damage the landscape for years to come and place enormous pressure on the emergency services.”
Seven sites still burning
Earlier in the day, fire crews had said they were continuing to battle fires at seven sites and warned that smoke was still a major issue for areas. The affected areas include Blaenavon, Dowlais, Llwyn-on, Cefn Golau in Tredegar, Llanynidir, Darren Park in Ferndale and Llanwonno.
Residents have been thanked for their patience and urged to avoid affected areas where possible. People are urged to stay away from affected areas and call 999 if a fire threatens people or property.
Sir Chris Bryant added: “To every firefighter, and emergency service responder tonight, thank you. You should not have to be doing this again. Please, everyone, take care and think about the consequences of anything that could start a fire. We cannot keep putting our emergency services, our communities and our mountains through this.”
