People warned not to venture into Elan Valley as wildfires burn

Fire crews have been battling several wildfires in the area since Saturday evening.

People are being advised not to venture to Claerwen and Elan reservoirs as wildfires continue to burn.

Fire crews have been battling several wildfires in the area since the weekend and the situation is still ongoing.

A fire engine in the Elan Valley where huge hill fires lit up the night skyplaceholder image
A fire engine in the Elan Valley where huge hill fires lit up the night sky | Rhayader Fire Station/MAWWFRS

The Elan Valley Trust has warned: "A serious hill fire is currently affecting the area between Claerwen and Elan reservoirs.

"For your safety and to allow emergency services to work, please do not venture into these hills at this time."

Three firefighters carrying fire beaters during the Elan Valley wildfiresplaceholder image
Three firefighters carrying fire beaters during the Elan Valley wildfires | Rhayader Fire Station/MAWWFRS

The trust is asking people to avoid Claerwen Reservoir Byway as this is currently reserved for emergency vehicles.

The trust also says that Monks Trod has been badly affected by fire damage.

Elan Valley resident Sorcha Lewis captured this imageplaceholder image
Elan Valley resident Sorcha Lewis captured this image | Sorcha Lewis

The trust added: "Every year, fire is responsible for the destruction of thousands of hectares of countryside, open space and wildlife habitats.

"This is why fires and barbeques are not permitted on the Elan Valley estate.

"Camping and overnight parking are also not permitted.

"Also, be mindful of how you dispose of waste in the countryside as discarded glass bottles and cigarettes can cause fires.

"Always take your litter home or use the bins that are provided at the Visitor Centre."

Freelance photographer Ruth Rees captured this image of a ewe and her lamb, with the Elan Valley ablaze in the backgroundplaceholder image
Freelance photographer Ruth Rees captured this image of a ewe and her lamb, with the Elan Valley ablaze in the background | Ruth Rees

Fire crews were first called to the scene on Sunday morning, with crews from Rhayader, Llanidloes, Llanwrtyd Wells and Tregaron tackling the flames.

A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “Since Sunday, 26 April, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews have responded to several wildfires in and around the Elan Valley area.

“Firefighter crews are currently responding to wildfire near the Claerwen Dam.

“The area should be avoided while this incident is ongoing to allow access for emergency services.”

Rhayader Fire Station said on social media: “All evening Saturday, all day Sunday and from 2:22 - 20:53 on Monday Rhayader Fire Station crews have been battling two large fires in the Elan Valley and Claerwen Valley.

“Again you will see the glow tonight but be assured crews are watching.”

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