### Helicopter Deployed to Combat Widespread Wildfire in South Wales as Residents Told to Remain Indoors
A significant wildfire has prompted the deployment of a firefighting helicopter in south Wales, with local communities urged to stay indoors amid warnings of heavy smoke and ash settling over the region. Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the situation and keep residents informed and safe as the incident continues to unfold.
The blaze, which broke out in a vast grassland and affected sections of forest behind Pentre Road in Maerdy late on Friday, 9 May, has demanded a considerable response from emergency services. Crews from the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service managed to regain control over the situation on Friday night, but the outbreak flared up again in several areas on the morning of Saturday, 10 May, necessitating further urgent action.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the public body responsible for managing natural resources in the country, revealed on social media that a specially contracted helicopter has been brought in to battle the flames. The aircraft is playing a vital role in dousing hotspots and helping to contain the fire’s spread, particularly in locations cumbersome to reach via ground-based firefighting teams.
Residents living in the vicinity have been advised by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to remain indoors wherever possible and keep all doors and windows tightly closed. The measures are a safeguard against the considerable amount of smoke and falling ash drifting across communities, especially those located upwind from the fire. Authorities have warned that the smoke could pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
The situation has also had a significant impact on transport. South Wales Police have closed Park Street in Ferndale in both directions, specifically between Brynhyfryd Terrace and Cynllwyndu Road in Tylorstown, due to the proximity of the blaze. Motorists are being asked to follow diversions and plan for delays, with the road likely to remain off-limits until the fire is under control.
While the causes of the wildfire are still under investigation, South Wales Police have clarified that there have been no arrests in connection with the incident to date. However, reports linked to anti-social behaviour have been filed, and referrals are being prepared. Authorities are emphasising the seriousness of wildfires, which can destroy natural habitats, threaten public safety, and disrupt the lives of local people.
Natural Resources Wales has also strongly recommended that residents and visitors stay away from Mynydd Maerdy and Cefn y Rhondda for their own safety. Officials have asked the public to avoid using rights of way through forests and refrain from venturing onto open common land near Maerdy until emergency crews have declared the area safe.
Officers from NRW are currently on-site, working in tandem with the fire services to monitor the blaze, offer technical advice, and assess the extent of environmental damage. With recent dry weather increasing the risk of wildfires, agencies are urging anyone spotting a new fire to notify the fire service immediately. Members of the public who witness suspicious behaviour, including potential arson, are urged to report this to the police or Crimestoppers without delay.
As the wildfire response continues, local authorities and emergency personnel are maintaining regular communication with the public, sharing updates on safety advice and the progress of recovery efforts. The collaborative work between fire services, NRW, and police highlights the scale and seriousness of the incident while serving as a reminder of the vulnerabilities posed by extended periods of dry weather on the Welsh landscape. Community vigilance and responsible behaviour remain critical in preventing further episodes and supporting those affected by this large-scale emergency.