Major incident lifted, vigilance continues
The major incident declared over the weekend across North Wales has been stood down, with the situation at Conwy Mountain near Capelulo described as having improved significantly. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) confirmed that resources are now sufficient to manage the current level of wildfire activity. Firefighters remain on the mountain to watch conditions and assess any ongoing risks.
All local road closures around Conwy Mountain have been lifted and residents from the 36 properties evacuated are now able to return home. A rest centre remains available until 22:00 for anyone needing continued support. The service thanked affected residents for their patience and cooperation during the incident.
Smoke expected to persist and what residents should do
Although the immediate threat has eased, the fire is expected to smoulder for several days, producing intermittent smoke. NWFRS has asked the public to get in touch only if they see visible flames or if smoke becomes excessive in their area. Those impacted by smoke should keep windows and doors closed until conditions improve, then air their homes once the smoke clears.
- Keep windows and doors shut while smoke is present.
- Call NWFRS only if you see flames or smoke becomes overwhelming.
- Once conditions improve, ventilate your home thoroughly.
- Stay away from affected hillsides and tracks to avoid hindering crews.
Power supply issues and support on the ground
Some households may be facing power supply issues linked to the wildfire response. Scottish Power Energy Networks is working to restore electricity as swiftly as possible and is deploying generators where required to reduce disruption. Residents returning to properties are advised to check appliances and report any ongoing issues to their supplier.
Other wildfire sites under monitoring
While Conwy Mountain has stabilised, firefighters also remain at other locations where conditions are being monitored and reassessed as needed. These include Braichmelyn Forestry in Bethesda and the Rhinogydd mountain range near Harlech. The service acknowledged the support of partner organisations and other emergency responders throughout the incident and said it would provide a further update on Wednesday morning.
| Location | Current status | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Conwy Mountain, Capelulo | Major incident stood down; significant improvement | Crews monitoring; residents back; roads reopened; smoke may linger |
| Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda | Ongoing monitoring | Firefighters in attendance assessing risks |
| Rhinogydd range, near Harlech | Ongoing monitoring | Crews remain on scene to track conditions |
Local impact and next steps
The lifting of evacuation orders in Capelulo marks a turning point after a challenging period for residents and responders. With road access restored, daily routines can resume, albeit with continued caution given the likelihood of residual smoke. Public cooperation remains important to reduce pressure on crews still working at multiple sites across the region.
NWFRS reiterated that it will maintain a presence on Conwy Mountain while hotspots are identified and extinguished as required. Conditions on upland terrain can change quickly due to wind and fuel load, which is why a watching brief continues even as the most acute phase has passed. The focus now is on preventing re-ignition, safeguarding nearby communities, and supporting those affected by smoke and power disruption.
Residents returning to properties should make a visual check of gardens and outbuildings for any embers or heat-affected items and follow any further advice issued by the fire service. Anyone particularly affected by smoke should consider relocating to rooms at the opposite side of the property from the prevailing wind and use clean, damp cloths around door gaps to limit ingress until the air clears.
How to stay informed
NWFRS has said a further update is expected tomorrow morning. Residents can continue to monitor official channels for the latest information on any change in risk and on the phased withdrawal of crews from monitored sites. Community members are urged not to travel onto affected hillsides to take photographs or assess damage, as doing so can trigger flare-ups or obstruct access for emergency vehicles.
For now, the message is one of cautious reassurance: evacuation orders have been lifted, essential services are restoring supplies, and firefighters remain on standby to manage any hotspots that may emerge as the fire continues to smoulder.
