Major incident as mountain fires spread into Gwynedd
Firefighters are continuing to tackle multiple wildfires across north Wales, with a major incident declared after blazes led to evacuations and road closures across Conwy, Gwynedd and Flintshire. Among the most concerning fronts for local residents is the fire in the Rhinogydd mountain range near Harlech, with crews stating they are actively monitoring the area above the village of Llanbedr.
Images from the wider incident show swathes of mountainside charred and smoking, with more than 200 acres reportedly affected across the northern front. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed on 13 July that their crews remain at key locations as the situation evolves.
Focus on Gwynedd: Rhinogydd and Llanbedr
For communities in southern Meirionnydd, the fire line above Llanbedr in the Rhinogydd remains a live concern. The service has cautioned that the fire in this area is likely to continue burning for some time, and that people should avoid the hills and surrounding access points while monitoring continues. The rugged terrain and changeable winds over the Rhinogydd make firefighting complex and potentially prolonged, and local residents in Harlech, Llanbedr and neighbouring settlements have been urged to heed safety advice and stay clear of operational zones.
Elsewhere in the region, crews have also been tackling a blaze at Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda, and on Conwy Mountain near Capelulo. Aerial footage shared on social media shows extensive firefighting activity as crews work to contain hotspots and secure boundaries to protect nearby communities and infrastructure.
Travel disruption and public safety
In Conwy, Sychnant Pass Road has been closed in both directions between Dwygyfylchi and the Llechwedd turn-off due to the fire, with authorities asking the public to avoid the area altogether. Emergency services say that members of the public attempting to access the uplands are putting both themselves and responders at risk.
- Public urged to stay away from operational areas on Conwy Mountain and the Rhinogydd.
- Road closure in the Sychnant Pass area affects local and through traffic.
- Situation above Llanbedr in Gwynedd expected to continue for some time.
In Flintshire, at Brynford on Halkyn Mountain, the fire has been brought under control and crews have been stood down, freeing resources to support other fronts.
What authorities are saying
“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 urge people to stay away from Conwy Mountain and surrounding areas. Public access can hinder emergency operations, create additional safety risks and impact our ability to respond effectively.”
Officials also thanked local communities for their support and cooperation, and highlighted the coordinated, multi-agency response led by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service with support from North Wales Police and the local authorities.
Where the fires stand
| Location | County | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Rhinogydd (above Llanbedr, near Harlech) | Gwynedd | Active; being monitored; expected to burn for some time |
| Braichmelyn Forestry, Bethesda | Gwynedd | Crews in attendance |
| Conwy Mountain (near Capelulo) | Conwy | Crews in attendance; access restrictions in place |
| Brynford, Halkyn Mountain | Flintshire | Brought under control; crews stood down |
Local impact and what residents should do
For those in the Harlech and Llanbedr area, the immediate priority is to keep clear of upland paths and forestry tracks to allow crews to move safely and maintain fire breaks. Smoke may drift across nearby communities depending on wind direction; anyone with respiratory conditions should consider keeping windows closed and following any further health guidance issued by the authorities.
Road users should check for updates before travelling near the northern coast and upland passes. With conditions still dynamic in the Rhinogydd, walkers and visitors are asked to postpone plans in the affected hills until emergency services confirm it is safe to return.
Residents are encouraged to follow official updates from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and their local council channels for the latest directions on safety, access and transport.
