Residents evacuated from Rhandirmwyn near Llandovery have been allowed to return home as firefighters continue to bring a major wildfire under control. The fire, which tore through the landscape for five days, remains a major incident, according to an update from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS).
Significant progress in containing the blaze
On Monday, crews made significant progress in containing the fire and are now focusing on extinguishing remaining hotspots and monitoring conditions. A helicopter remains available to support firefighters, carrying out water drops where needed.
Support from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has now ended, and the several families displaced from their homes at the height of the blaze have been told they can go home.
Road closures and safety warnings remain
Road closures remain in place, and people are urged to respect the closures and follow signed diversion routes. People are also advised to avoid affected areas, keep windows and doors closed if smoke is present, and take extra care when travelling because smoke may reduce visibility.
People are warned not to fly drones near the incident, as they could interfere with firefighting operations.
Wider wildfire response across Wales
Fire crews are continuing to tackle a number of serious wildfires across Wales with help from the army. As of Monday, Welsh firefighters are present at at least 20 separate incidents. In mid and west Wales, incidents are ongoing in Llangynidr, Rhandirmwyn, Pontarddulais, Gorseinon, Llanelli, Pendine and Tenby.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service says it is attending 14 call-outs. A statement from the service on Sunday afternoon said the six most serious fires are located in Blaenavon; Dowlais; Darran Park, Ferndale; Cwm, Ebbw Vale; Wattsville and Treherbert.
Support from across the UK and local farmers
Crews from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, West Midlands Fire Service, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and London Fire Brigade are among those providing support to emergency services in mid and south Wales. They are joined by members of the British army and hundreds of local farmers.
MAWWFRS said local residents, businesses, landowners and members of the farming community had provided “exceptional support” during the Llandovery incident, while thanking partner agencies and firefighters involved in the response.
Anyone who sees flames or believes life or property is at immediate risk is urged to call 999.
