Overview
- Emergency services declared a major incident on Sunday after a large wildfire broke out near Sychnant Pass on Conwy Mountain and grew across steep moorland.
- Local police and councils issued precautionary evacuations for parts of Capelulo, Dwygyfylchi and Penmaenmawr and set up designated rest centres for displaced residents.
- North Wales Fire and Rescue Service says multiple fire appliances, specialist wildfire teams and partner agencies are working on scene and that operations are expected to continue for some time.
- Thick smoke has drifted for miles, prompting advice to keep windows and doors closed, warnings for motorists about reduced visibility and instructions to seek medical help for breathing problems.
- The blaze comes as hot, dry conditions have raised wildfire risk across the UK and officials emphasise most fires start from a spark such as disposable barbecues, cigarettes or glass left in sunlight, which could further stretch already taxed resources.