Blaenavon wildfire: Urgent warning issued by SWFRS

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Members of the public are being urged to "think twice" before lighting a fire, as crews remain at the scene of a wildfire in Blaenavon. 

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning advising people against lighting fires or barbecues in an effort to prevent further incidents.

As the dry and hot weather continues, SWFRS is reminding people that it "only takes one small spark" to start a fire - and it can quickly become out of  control. 

A spokesperson for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are urging the public to think twice before lighting a fire or barbecue to prevent further incidents.

"In the prolonged dry and hot weather, it only takes one small spark for a fire to start and quickly become out of control".

Blaenavon wildfire 2026Crews remain at the scene of a wildfire in Blaenavon.  (Image: SWFRS)

The warning comes as South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and their partners at Natural Resources Wales remain at the scene of the Blaenavon wildfire which has been burning for more than 10 days.

"Significant progress" has been made at the wildfire, according to South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

A spokesperson confirmed that all the fire breaks are continuing to hold and the incident remains contained at this time.

Blaenavon wildfire 2026The wildfire which has been burning for more than 10 days. (Image: SWFRS)

A spokesperson for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said in an updated statement yesterday, July 29: "Our crews remain at the scene of the Blaenavon wildfire, working alongside our partners at Natural Resources Wales.

"Significant progress has been made, with all fire breaks continuing to hold and the incident remaining contained".

Crews are expected to stay on site over the coming days and they will continue with "fire suppression and mitigation operations".

Blaenavon wildfire 2026Smoke from the wildfire could be seen across South Wales last week. (Image: SWFRS)

While there is less smoke in the area now, anyone affected is being reminded to keep their windows and doors closed, and follow public health advice.

The spokesperson said: "We are expected to remain on site over the coming days to monitor the area and continue with fire suppression and mitigation operations.

"There is less smoke in the area, however, anyone affected by smoke is advised to continue following public health advice and keep windows and doors closed".

Smoke from the wildfire could be seen across South Wales last week, with residents as far as way as Cardiff and Caerphilly affected due to a change in wind direction.

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