North Wales Fire and Rescue teams remain at the scene of a huge mountain wildfire in Gwynedd which continues to spread across the Rhinogydd mountains above Harlech. The fire is currently estimated to cover around 2,000 acres, with a fire front of approximately 2km.
Crews continue to actively fight the fire in challenging conditions., a fire service spokesperson said today (Thursday, July 16).
A significant proportion of the affected area is inaccessible by both vehicle and on foot, making firefighting operations particularly demanding. The fire is also approaching areas of forestry, which is being closely monitored as part of the ongoing response, the fire service confirmed.
As a result of the difficult terrain and limited access, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service requested aerial support through Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru (Natural Resources Wales). While the request has been approved, helicopter support is not currently available until early next week due to demand from wildfire incidents elsewhere across the UK.
Images of the wildfire on Rhinogydd mountains near Cwm Bychan lake, near Harlech(Image: North Wales Fire and Rescue Service)
Multiple fire crews remain in attendance and are expected to be at the scene for some time. As a precaution, crews are maintaining contact with nearby properties and a local campsite, although there is currently no indication that evacuation is required.
Jody McEachern, Head of Prevention, said: “Our focus remains on containing the fire as effectively as possible, while monitoring changing conditions and protecting the surrounding environment.”Local residents have made calls for heliicopters to be deployed to protect local farms and properties.
Wildlife sites have been destroyed and there are fears the fires could spread to nearby farms(Image: Jessica Williams)
Crews have now left Braichmelyn Forest, Bethesda as the fire has been contained., the fire service confirmed: “We are continuing to monitor the situation on the mountain near Capelulo in case any hotspots re-appear.”Multiple fire crews remain in attendance at Harlech and are expected to be at the scene for some time.
The spokesperson added: “Conditions remain challenging, with wind direction changing frequently in mountainous terrain. These changing conditions can affect fire behaviour and firefighting operations, and crews continue to monitor the situation closely.”
Dramatic images posted by the The Shell Island campsite in Gwynedd captured the scale fire that swept across a mountain above Llanbedr.
Fires have broken out across tinderbox dry North Wales. They were also dealing with a fire at Bagillt in Flintshire, yesterday evening, which was reported to be a gorse fire.
The wildfire on Rhinogydd mountains near Cwm Bychan lake, near Harlech continues to spread(Image: North Wales Fire and Rescue Service)
Later the fire service posted: “We are aware of the ongoing fire in the Bagillt, Flintshire area and are currently receiving a number of calls regarding the incident.
“Fire crews are in attendance – please avoid the area if possible. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.”
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