Crews have been battling a significant number of wildfires across Wales this past week(Image: John Myers)

Devastating images show scorched earth and thick smoke from fire the size of 300 football pitches

by · Wales Online

Devastating images show the scorched earth marking the Welsh mountainside after days of a wildfire burning. Billowing smoke is continuing to rise up from the hillside above Blaenavon in Torfaen.

The fire, described as "significant" by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), has spread to affect an area the size of around 300 football pitches since it started on Sunday. In its latest update on Wednesday afternoon, the fire service said the blaze covered 200 hectares and had a perimeter of around 5km.

Smoke from the fire has impacted communities across south Wales, with those living 30 miles away reporting being able to smell the thick smoke at various times due to changes in the wind direction.

People in Cardiff, Caerphilly, Newport and Rhondda Cynon Taf have all reported being affected by smoke, with communities being reminded to keep their doors and windows closed if necessary.

Public Health Wales said smoke can irritate your eyes, nose and throat, and may cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. "Stay indoors and keep windows closed. If you are travelling, keep your vehicle windows closed, and switch air conditioning to recirculation mode. Keep inhalers and medication with you.

"If you have symptoms and they do not improve when inside, away from smoke or ash, ask for advice from your GP or NHS 111."

The warning about the significant smoke lingering comes as the Welsh Government said activated "crisis management arrangements" in response to the large number of significant wildfires in recent days. It said it had been told by the Ministry of Defence that there are no helicopters available to help crews on the ground tackle the blazes. See more on this here.

Our photographer John Myers captured images of the devastation left by the wildfire in Blaenavon on Wednesday. Find a selection of the best ones below:

Crews were first called to the wildfire in Blaenavon on Sunday evening(Image: John Myers)
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Along with the acres and acres of scorched and blackened earth, the fire has also left a putrid smell of smoke in the air(Image: John Myers)
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Fire crews have been thanked for their extensive efforts in trying to bring the blaze under control(Image: John Myers)
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