Crews have been engaged in tackling a significant fire on Llanwonno mountain in the Rhondda Valley since Saturday. The situation was escalated to a major incident on Monday as efforts focused on protecting homes in the vicinity. Firefighters are establishing fire breaks and monitoring the area.
Officials from the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) have indicated that the fire is being exacerbated by "pockets of deliberate fire setting." This element introduces critical conditions for the crews and strains the service's resources. Area Manager Christian Hadfield described the work as "unpredictable and complex" and stated that firefighters could remain on the scene for "many days to come."
The deliberate nature of the fires has drawn criticism from residents. One individual, who preferred not to be named, expressed frustration, stating that such acts lead to the destruction of wildlife, endanger people, and divert emergency services, representing a "real waste of resources."
Residents have described the impact of the smoke, with one stating that "the smoke was so thick I couldn't breathe" on Monday night. Another resident, Ian Putland, reported smelling the fire even with windows closed and observed ash on his car, indicating the fire's proximity. The presence of numerous fire personnel also caused alarm. Mental health campaigner and former BBC presenter Huw Edwards was mentioned in relation to a court case where Christopher John Phillips, 59, pleaded guilty to assault and criminal damage, as well as separate charges of drug possession and the supply of cannabis. Phillips was sentenced to 100 hours of unpaid work. This information appears to be an unrelated detail from the provided source notes.