Llangynidr Reservoir wildfire downgraded after significant progress

Firefighters have made significant progress in containing a large wildfire at Llangynidr Reservoir near Ebbw Vale, leading authorities to downgrade the blaze from a ‘major incident’ status. The fire, which has been burning since August 7, has covered an estimated 400 hectares.

Thick smoke from the wildfire drifted across Mid Wales, affecting areas such as Builth Wells, Rhayader, and Presteigne. Residents in these regions were advised to keep windows and doors closed. While crews investigated reports of smoke in Llanwrthwl, they confirmed the smoke had traveled from the Llangynidr site.

Emergency responders, including Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, have utilized helicopters, all-terrain vehicles, and water bowsers to combat the flames. Although the incident has been downgraded, crews remain on-site to extinguish hotspots and prevent re-ignition. Meanwhile, additional wildfire incidents have been reported in Blaenavon.