Emergency services are tackling a fire in the Blaenavon area that is affecting people for miles
07:50, 21 Jul 2026Updated 08:13, 21 Jul 2026
Smoke has travelled for over 10 miles, SWFRS said.(Image: Robin Birt)
Smoke from a major wildfire in Blaenavon has spread across South Wales, with people reporting the smell as far away as Newport and Cardiff. The fire services has warned those affected by the smell to close their windows and doors.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) said crews remain at the scene tackling the blaze, which has generated a large number of 999 calls since it first broke out on Sunday evening.
The fire service said smoke from the fire could be seen up to 10 miles away and urged residents not to be concerned if they could smell or see it.
A SWFRS spokesperson said: “Crews spent the night dealing with a significant wildfire in the Blaenavon area, having received the initial call at 8.42pm on Sunday July 19.
Smoke from the mountain fire has spread across South Wales(Image: Ben White)
“This morning, six appliances and a water bowser remain at the scene, supported by SWFRS tactical wildfire officers who are specially trained and highly skilled in responding to these incidents.
“The wildfire currently covers around 80 hectares of mixed land of bracken and gorse. Crews have been working in challenging conditions due to the terrain, access and the wind conditions.
“A change in wind direction overnight has seen smoke from the incident impacting a large area of South Wales, and is reported as far south as Caerphilly and Cardiff. SWFRS is advising anyone affected by this smoke to close their windows and doors.
“SWFRS is receiving a high volume of calls reporting the smoke, however the service would like to reassure communities that they are aware and are dealing with the incident which has caused it. People are being advised to stay away from the area, to allow the emergency response to continue.”
Fire crews remain at the scene tackling the fire (Image: Robin Birt)
People across South Wales including Caerphilly, Newport and Cardiff have also reported smelling strong smoke from the fire.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has asked the public not to call to report the smoke unless they believe they have spotted a separate fire.
The wildfire remains ongoing.
The fire service is also dealing with a separate grass fire in Treherbert.
The wildfire in Blaenavon can be smelled by residents as far as Newport and Cardiff(Image: Robin Birt)
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