Welsh Government Activates Crisis Response Over 4,000-Petition Wildfires as UK Lacks Aerial Support
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 22
Welsh Government Activates Crisis Response Over 4,000-Petition Wildfires as UK Lacks Aerial Support
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 22
Summary
Wales activated crisis management arrangements as multiple wildfires burned across north and south Wales, with ministers saying urgent talks are under way in Wales and at UK level on aerial support.
A 4,000-name petition and local criticism intensified after fires near Trawsfynydd and in the Rhinogydd mountains spread in remote terrain, while the government said no aerial firefighting support was available anywhere in the UK.
North Wales crews were battling blazes at Capelulo, Rhinogydd, Hope Mountain, Brymbo, Pentrefelin, Holyhead and Pentre Halkyn, with some residents told to keep windows and doors closed.
In Blaenavon, a major south Wales fire entered a third day and was expected to burn for several more, sending smoke as far as 30 miles and affecting communities around Torfaen and Pontypool.
The government said ground crews remain the most effective wildfire response, while extra staff, fire appliances and 1,000-litre water containers were deployed to limit risks to lives, property and wildlife.