At least 20 wildfires are currently burning across South Wales, with nearly 200 soldiers deployed to assist exhausted firefighters in tackling the blazes. Fire chiefs described the situation as 'exceptional' due to tinder-dry conditions and a continued lack of rain, warning that the wildfire risk remains high despite potential temperature easing.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) reported battling 14 wildfires on Saturday night, having received 736 calls—more than double the usual average. Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is confronting an additional six wildfires.
Military personnel from the Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment and the 22 Engineer Regiment are providing support by digging trenches and constructing fire breaks, which allows firefighters to focus on specialized extinguishing tasks. The military is also assisting with logistical support, including water distribution.
Despite public warnings, including an emergency alert sent to millions of mobile phones across England and Wales, some individuals are engaging in dangerous behavior. South Wales Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan noted instances of people burning tires under trees, calling such actions irresponsible.
Adam Openshaw, deputy fire chief, stated that the combined efforts are vital in protecting communities during these exceptional circumstances. Fire Brigades Union executive council member for Wales, Gareth Tovey, reported that firefighters are working in materially different conditions due to the extreme dryness, enduring long shifts without breaks.
This surge in wildfires follows a declaration of a major incident by West Midlands Fire Service on Thursday, where a wildfire spread over 500 acres and destroyed 19 homes. Four 14-year-old boys were arrested in connection with a fire on a mountain near Porth and have since been bailed under investigation.
