Ferndale wildfire declared a major incident
Crews currently have 20 fire engines at the scene
Last updated 3rd Aug 2026
A wildfire in the Rhondda area has been declared a Major Incident, due to what the Fire Service has described as the 'extensive resources' required to manage the situation.
The fire began on Saturday afternoon in Llanwonno, Ferndale, and has impacted approximately 150 hectares of forestry plantation land, common land, and vegetation.
Firefighters from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, say they are tackling challenging conditions on steep terrain to contain the fire and protect nearby communities.
Nearly 20 fire engines, along with specialist wildfire teams, senior officers, a high-volume pumping unit, and drones, are currently deployed at the scene.
Despite making progress in reducing the fire's size, the service said changing winds on Sunday evening have intensified firefighting efforts.
A rest centre has been set up at Rhondda Fach Leisure Centre for residents in nearby Blaenllechau/Ferndale, though evacuations are not presently required.
The fire is expected to continue for several days, with people advised to avoid the incident area.