Blazes stretch from Harlech to Bethesda as firefighters maintain prolonged response
Fire crews are continuing to confront a series of wildfires across north-west Wales after a major incident was declared, with fronts burning in Gwynedd, Conwy and Flintshire. The most persistent outbreaks are on the Rhinogydd range above Llanbedr near Harlech, on Conwy Mountain by Capelulo, and in Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) said the hillside blaze above Llanbedr is expected to smoulder for some time and warned the public to steer clear.
Images from the scene show large tracts of scorched moorland and smoke drifting from several ridgelines. Early assessments indicate that over 200 acres have been affected since the fires ignited over the weekend. In neighbouring Conwy, Sychnant Pass Road has been closed in both directions between Dwygyfylchi and the Llechwedd junction, disrupting a key coastal link frequently used by commuters and visitors moving between the Conwy valley and Penmaenmawr.
NWFRS confirmed the incident remains live and asked people not to enter the affected uplands, particularly around Capelulo, where crowds have been seen approaching fireground perimeters. The service stressed that public access risks safety and complicates operations involving crews and equipment spread across exposed, windy terrain.
“Crews continue to fight fires at Conwy Mountain near Capelulo, Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda and at Rhinogydd mountain range, near Harlech. … The fire is likely to be burning for some time, and we’d continue to appeal for people to keep away from the area. … We are aware that some members of the public are continuing to enter the affected near Capelulo area despite repeated safety warnings. We urge people to stay away … Public access can hinder emergency operations, create additional safety risks and impact our ability to respond effectively.”
While the situation on Conwy Mountain and the Rhinogydd remains dynamic, NWFRS reported that the blaze at Brynford, Halkyn Mountain in Flintshire has been brought under control and crews have been stood down there. Conwy County Borough Council thanked emergency services and confirmed a coordinated, multi-agency response is in place as the incident continues.
Focus on Gwynedd: upland communities and travel
For Gwynedd residents, the primary concerns are centred on moorland above Llanbedr and the forestry around Bethesda. These landscapes, a mix of heather, grass and commercial woodland, can carry fire across vast, uneven ground. With access tracks limited, firefighting relies on sustained hose runs, beaters and control lines, often under shifting winds. Even once main flames are suppressed, hot spots can persist in peat and vegetation, prolonging monitoring efforts.
Travel impacts may be felt beyond the immediate firegrounds. The Sychnant Pass closure in Conwy can divert traffic onto coastal routes that also serve parts of north-west Gwynedd, leading to longer journeys for residents and businesses. Smoke and ash fall can vary with the wind, and while no specific health alerts were issued in the statements shared, NWFRS’s plea to avoid the hills is a clear signal that conditions remain hazardous for walkers and sightseers.
Agencies on the ground and public cooperation
Emergency services emphasised that keeping the uplands clear of onlookers allows crews to move vehicles and equipment efficiently, reduces the risk to the public, and preserves communications across the fireground. Conwy Council publicly commended the sustained effort by firefighters and police, and NWFRS extended thanks to local communities for their support as the response continues.
Below is a snapshot of the affected sites and current status as described by the authorities:
| Location | County | Status (as per latest updates) |
|---|---|---|
| Rhinogydd above Llanbedr/Harlech | Gwynedd | Ongoing; likely to burn for some time; public urged to keep away |
| Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda | Gwynedd | Ongoing; crews in attendance |
| Conwy Mountain near Capelulo | Conwy | Ongoing; access prohibited; risks to operations |
| Brynford, Halkyn Mountain | Flintshire | Under control; crews stood down |
What residents should know now
- A major incident remains in effect, with multi-agency coordination.
- NWFRS has asked the public to stay away from affected uplands, including Capelulo and the Rhinogydd above Llanbedr.
- Sychnant Pass Road (between Dwygyfylchi and the Llechwedd turn-off) is closed due to fire operations.
With crews committed on several fronts and warm, dry conditions having already left hillsides tinder-dry, the message from responders is that patience and cooperation are essential. NWFRS’s appeal is unequivocal: the safest and most helpful action for residents and visitors is to give firefighters the space they need to secure containment lines and monitor flare-ups across the uplands.
