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A petition with over 4,000 signatures has been launched calling for aerial assistance to combat wildfires, following a fire that spread into Coed y Brenin in Conwy county. Sian Williams, operations manager at Natural Resources Wales (NRW), characterized the wildfire conditions across Wales as “exceptional.” Despite requests made by the fire and rescue services, she revealed that securing aerial support has so far been unsuccessful.
Williams explained that NRW has agreements with three helicopter operators for firefighting support, but those resources are currently engaged with fires in England and Scotland. Meanwhile, the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues its efforts to manage a wildfire near Capelulo by Sychnant Pass, which followed a significant grass fire on Conwy Mountain. Additionally, a coordinated response is underway on the Rhinogydd mountains in Gwynedd, where residents have been advised to keep windows and doors closed for safety.
Fire crews are also addressing several grass fires in other parts of Wales, including Hope Mountain and Brymbo in Wrexham county, as well as Pentrefelin, Holyhead, and Pentre Halkyn near the A55 in Flintshire. Ecologist Angharad Owen, who initiated the petition, emphasized the importance of aerial firefighting, especially for difficult-to-reach locations like Rhinogydd. She noted that helicopters “are proven to be highly effective in managing and extinguishing wildfires swiftly” and can target critical areas with water and fire retardant, something ground teams may find challenging in rugged terrain.
Owen expressed deep concern about the damage caused by these fires, highlighting the negative impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Meanwhile, Caroline Mason, from the Rhiw Goch Inn campsite in Trawsfynydd, described her experience watching the mountain engulfed in flames, saying, “I could hear the sounds of the fire burning. It woke me up.” She shared her distress as the fire grew closer and showed no signs of abating. In South Wales, firefighters have been battling a wildfire in Blaenavon, Torfaen county, for the third day, with smoke affecting a wider area. Residents reported a “fogginess” and an “acrid smell” permeating several miles between Torfaen and Pontypool. Alison Probert advised people to minimize outdoor laundry and keep their homes sealed to protect themselves from the smoke
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