The wildfire in Carmarthenshire at Rhandirmwyn, near Llandovery, is now considered to be under control following significant progress made by firefighters and partner agencies over recent days.

As a result, the decision has been taken to downgrade the incident from a Major Incident.

A spokesperson for Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Service stated on Monday (August 17) evening: “Firefighters have made significant progress in recent days, successfully containing much of the fire and dealing with hotspots across the affected area.

“Due to the significant progress made, the specialist firefighting helicopter is now no longer required and has ceased operations at the incident.

“Crews remain on scene undertaking targeted firefighting operations and closely monitoring conditions to respond to any changes in fire behaviour.

Llandovery wildfire
Cllr Handel Davies of Llandovery Town Council shared on Monday evening: “The wildfire is no longer a Major Incident and whilst two fire tenders will remain in the village area overnight the rest of the Fire Brigade resources will now leave Rhandirmwyn to attend to fire outbreaks elsewhere in the county.” (Cllr Handel Davies)

“Mutual aid support from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has now concluded, and we would like to thank both Services for their valuable assistance throughout the incident.”

Residents who were previously evacuated as a precaution due to the fire's proximity have now been allowed to return to their properties. Partner agencies continue to work together to provide any ongoing support that may be required.

Road closures remain in place in and around the affected area to facilitate firefighting operations and maintain public safety.

Members of the public are asked to continue respecting these closures and follow signed diversion routes where necessary.

Cllr Handel Davies of Llandovery Town Council shared on Monday evening: “At the control centre in Rhandirmwyn this evening Major Incident Commander Kevin Hughes confirmed that the helicopter had successfully completed the extinguishing of all ‘hot spots’ during today and had now left the area.

“Drone footage confirming that all fires had been extinguished although some small areas of smoke and smoulder may remain visible for a day or so.

“As a consequence of which the wildfire is no longer a Major Incident and whilst two fire tenders will remain in the village area overnight the rest of the Fire Brigade resources will now leave Rhandirmwyn to attend to fire outbreaks elsewhere in the county.

Llandovery wildfire
“Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and partner agencies would like to place on record their sincere thanks to the local community for the exceptional support shown throughout this incident,” said a spokesperson for the Fire Service. (Cllr Handel Davies)

“Incident Commander Hughes wished me to repeat the message of thanks from all the Fire Service personnel for the magnificent fire fighting contributions of farmers with their bowsers, excavators etc and the outstanding support and sustenance provided by the Royal Oak, the people of Rhandirmwyn and Llandovery.

“With more rain due overnight and tomorrow a further safety inspection assessment will be made in the morning prior to a decision to remove all remaining resources from the area,” he added.

Public Safety Reminder

As firefighting operations continue in the Rhandirmwyn area, members of the public are asked to:

  • Continue avoiding the affected area to allow emergency services to operate safely and effectively.
  • Respect all road closures and follow signed diversion routes, which remain in place to support emergency response operations and public safety.
  • Keep windows and doors closed if smoke is affecting your area and remain indoors where possible.
  • Once smoke has cleared and it is safe to do so, ventilate your property by opening windows and doors.
  • If travelling through areas affected by smoke, keep vehicle windows closed and set air conditioning to recirculation mode.
  • Take extra care when travelling locally, as smoke may reduce visibility on roads.
  • Do not fly drones near the incident, as they can interfere with firefighting operations and pose a risk to emergency responders.
  • Check on family members, neighbours and vulnerable residents who may be affected by smoke.
  • If you have a respiratory condition, such as asthma or COPD, ensure you have access to any medication or inhalers you may require and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
  • Follow updates and instructions issued by emergency services and partner agencies.
  • Call 999 immediately if you see flames or believe life or property is at immediate risk.

“Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and partner agencies would like to place on record their sincere thanks to the local community for the exceptional support shown throughout this incident,” continued the spokesperson for the Fire Service.

“We are especially grateful to local residents, businesses, landowners and members of the farming community, whose cooperation, patience and practical assistance have been invaluable.

wildfire Llandovery
Llanerchindda Farm Guest House shared this image of the forest wildfire (Llanerchindda Farm Guest House/Facebook)

“Their local knowledge, willingness to help and ongoing support have made a significant contribution to the emergency response and have greatly assisted crews operating in challenging conditions over recent days.

“We would also like to thank our partner agencies for their continued support throughout the incident, as well as colleagues from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service for their assistance under mutual aid arrangements.

“Finally, we extend our gratitude to all Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service personnel who continue to demonstrate professionalism, dedication and resilience while working to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”