South Wales wildfire major incident officially stood down

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service declared the major incident in August 2026, following a spike in large-scale vegetation fires across the region, including 14 wildfires burning at the same time.

The service called on every available resource to manage the crisis, including support from the British Army and specialist teams through the National Resilience programme.

Adam Openshaw, deputy chief fire officer at SWFRS, said: "Over the last few weeks, the people in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service have demonstrated incredible courage and professionalism to keep the public safe.

"Dealing with the wildfires across the region was part of a multi-agency approach and on behalf of SWFRS I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to you all.

"The professionalism shown by all partner agencies has been welcome and impressive, and the willingness to support us as we dealt with this enormous challenge has been nothing short of exceptional."

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service coordinated a multi-agency approach to tackle the wildfires (Image: Paul Coombes)

The major incident has now been formally stood down, but fire crews remain on alert.

From August 11 to September 1, SWFRS recorded 961 grass fires, including 115 classified as wildfires.

Of these, 26 reached category 3 status - the highest level of severity.

From July 19 to September 1, the service’s Joint Fire Control handled 8,466 calls, with a peak of 1,006 calls on August 13.

Mark Havell, area manager at SWFRS, said: "I want to offer my sincere thanks to every colleague across South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and to all those partners who stood alongside us throughout this major incident.

Fire and rescue service crews from across the UK supported the operation (Image: Chris Davies)

"The response has shown the very best of public service, people working with care, skill and resolve in difficult and demanding circumstances.

"This has been a collective effort, and I am proud of the professionalism, compassion and dedication shown by teams across the service.

"It is a privilege to say thank you to everyone who has played their part in protecting communities across South Wales."

Smoke from the wildfires affected areas across South Wales - including Newport City Centre (Image: Nikita Singh)

The incident prompted a multi-agency response involving police, local authorities, Natural Resources Wales, Public Health Wales, contractors, farmers and landowners.

Although the immediate threat has eased, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to stay alert.

Firefighters continue to monitor affected areas, and deep-seated hotspots mean that smoke may linger for some time.

Firefighters were working around the clock to tackle the wildfires (Image: Ethan Fowler)

Investigations into suspected arson are ongoing, with South Wales Police and Gwent Police continuing to look into reports of deliberate fire-setting.

Authorities are also working together to prevent further incidents and reduce risks to communities, firefighters, wildlife and the environment.

Members of the public are reminded to avoid activities that could start new fires and to only call 999 in the event of a genuine emergency.

Ponies on Manmoel Common in Ebbw Vale were also affected by the smoke from the wildfires (Image: Matthew John Morris )

People are also advised to stay away from burned areas, as the ground may still be dangerously hot even if flames are no longer visible.

The service is moving into a recovery phase but remains ready to respond to any flare-ups or new emergencies.

The public is encouraged to remain vigilant, follow safety advice, and support efforts to prevent further wildfires in the region.