Fires are believed to have been deliberately started on a mountain in the Rhondda Valley, where emergency services have been tackling a blaze since Saturday. The fire at Llanwonno, near Ferndale, began on Saturday afternoon and remains a major incident.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) reported "deliberate fire setting" on the mountain overnight on Monday. Area manager Christian Hadfield stated there were reports of "pockets of deliberate fire setting" which put crews "under really critical conditions and stretches the service."
Firefighters have been working in challenging conditions, including low cloud, mist, and rain. A specialist firefighting helicopter could not be deployed due to the poor weather. Road closures remain in place, and the public is asked to avoid the affected area.
While no evacuations have been forced, a rest centre has been set up for residents who do not wish to stay at home due to poor air quality. Residents affected by smoke are advised to keep windows and doors closed where possible. South Wales Police are asking anyone with information to contact them.