A monstrous inferno erupted on Tuesday evening in Swansea, lighting up the sky above Mynydd Gelliwastad, Clydach. More than 120 distressed calls flooded the fire service as flames raged dangerously close to local farms.
The blaze had South Wales Fire and Rescue Service deploying three crews to the scene after confirming their engagement at 8pm. Snapshots of the alarming sight, captured by residents, reveal the fire’s glow seen for miles.
Llansamlet local Andrew Webber recounted his encounter: “I’d just got to my parents to drop them home and could see the sky lighting up orange and then saw the flames. Me and my dad walked down the road a few yards and saw the view I had in the video and photos.”
Webber expressed concern, saying: “We could see emergency vehicles making their way up so I’m assuming it’s not a controlled fire.”
Contrasting views emerged as one neighbour initially suspected the usual controlled fires but quickly discerned the peril, reports Wales Online.
Amidst towering flames estimated at over 40 feet high, resident Mark Lane described the fierce blaze, noting its rapid spread and the formidable challenge posed to firefighters due to the steep location. Access woes and the magnitude of the fire have sparked serious concern for all involved.
Speaking from the scene, Mr Lane detailed the strenuous efforts underway to contain the blaze: “Some firefighters are making their way on foot across the challenging terrain, while others are actively attempting to tackle the fire despite the difficult conditions. A drone has also been deployed to assist in assessing the spread and scale of the blaze, given the complexities of the situation. The narrow roads remain a concern for fire truck access.”
In a recent statement, South Wales Police revealed that the force had responded to several intentional fires on the Gower commons in just the last few days. Urging anyone with information about these incidents to step forward, the public is asked to contact 101.