Shropshire firefighters support major South Wales wildfire response

Shropshire firefighters are supporting South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in tackling a number of significant wildfire incidents across South Wales.

Crews from Shropshire are working alongside firefighters from Dorset & Wiltshire and London Fire Brigade, assisting with operations in challenging conditions across a vast area.

The support comes as South Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to deal with several ongoing wildfires, including an incident at Cwm, near Ebbw Vale, where smoke is affecting communities in Argoed, Abertillery and Cwm.

Residents and people working in the affected areas have been advised to keep windows and doors closed if they are being impacted by smoke.

Military assistance has also been extended to support the firefighting effort, with helicopter assets operating across the area to carry out vital firefighting and reconnaissance missions.

A temporary restricted area for unmanned aircraft has been established by the Civil Aviation Authority across the affected area. Members of the public have been urged not to fly drones within the restricted zone, as unauthorised drone activity could pose a serious risk to helicopters and emergency responders.

The multi-agency response remains ongoing as crews continue working to contain the fires and protect communities and the surrounding countryside.

The contribution from Shropshire firefighters forms part of a wider coordinated effort involving fire and rescue services from across the UK to support South Wales crews during the prolonged wildfire response.