Wildfire situation has ‘improved significantly’ – but fire chief warns ‘this is not over’

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Firefighters are urging residents across south Wales to remain vigilant as active wildfires continue to smoulder, despite an overall drop in regional incidents.

At the height of the recent outbreak, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service was dealing with 14 concurrent wildfires. While activity has fallen significantly and national backup resources have stood down, crews remain on scene at several ongoing incidents.

Emergency efforts are currently focused on a 150-hectare blaze at Maerdy Mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf, alongside monitoring previous fire sites for potential flare-ups.

South Wales Police is also investigating several incidents of deliberate fire-setting linked to the recent fires.

Assistant chief fire officer Martin Ward-White warned that ground conditions remain hazardous even where visible flames have gone out.

ACFO Ward White said: “The overall situation has improved significantly, but this is not over. We continue to deal with active wildfire incidents and some affected areas are likely to smoulder for some time.

“We would like to thank our firefighters, partner agencies, farmers, volunteers, and local communities for their continued support throughout this challenging period.

“We are asking everyone to remain vigilant, avoid activities that could start fires and report any suspected deliberate fire-setting to the police. By working together, we can help prevent further incidents and protect our communities and environment.”

Crews warned that smoke will continue to drift across valley communities while deep-seated hotspots burn out. Anyone affected by smoke is advised to keep windows and doors closed.

The public is being urged to stay away from operational areas, avoid walking on burnt land where temperatures remain dangerously high, and call 999 only to report new emergencies.