Protect Wales’ countryside from wildfires this Bank Holiday - Natural Resources Wales
People planning to enjoy Wales’ great outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend are being urged to act responsibly and think carefully about the impact their actions can have on the environment, wildlife and local communities.
The period of warm and dry weather experienced across Wales has seen the risk of wildfires increase.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) officers have been working closely with Fire and Rescue Services and other partners to support efforts to manage and tackle grass and wildfires across the country.
On Wednesday (29 April 2026), NRW deployed a fire-fighting helicopter to carry out targeted water drops on the Elan Valley wildfire, Cwmystwyth, due to the high risk to nature, difficult ground access, forecast winds and lack of significant rainfall.
Since last night, teams have assisted South Wales Fire and Rescue Service at a large wildfire at Waun Wen near Merthyr Tydfil.
With conditions forecast to remain dry over the coming days, Wales is now entering an elevated-risk period for wildfires. While teams will continue to work around the clock to protect people, nature and property, NRW is also reminding people of the devastating consequences lighting fires and using disposable BBQs can have on the environment.
Richard Preece, Duty Tactical Manager for Natural Resources Wales, said: “Wales’ landscapes are incredibly special, but they are also vulnerable. It only takes one careless act for a fire to start and quickly get out of control. We’re asking everyone visiting the outdoors this Bank Holiday to think about the consequences of their actions and help us protect our wildlife, our water and our communities.”
As people enjoy the outdoors over the coming Bank Holiday, people are urged to be #WildfireWise by following simple but critical advice:
- never light fires in the countryside.
- only use disposable BBQs where signs say you can, never leave them unattended and ensure they are fully put out before you leave.
- take all litter home, especially glass bottles.
- avoid discarding cigarettes or matches.
- report any signs of fire or suspicious activity immediately by calling 999.