Major incident declared as people evacuated from homes and wildfire spreads – live updates

A major incident has been declared by emergency services with people being told to leave their homes due to a wildfire.

Pictures and videos show a fire spreading on the hillside with smoke seen from miles around. North Wales Police and multiple crews from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are at the scene near Sychnant Pass on Conwy Mountain.

People are being moved from their homes and people are told not to travel to the area unless essential.

The large-scale wildfire has been burning since the early hours. Firefighters are working in what has been described as “challenging conditions” and are trying to contain the fire and protect surrounding communities, property, infrastructure and the environment.

A spokesperson for Penmaenmawr Town Council said: “Emergency services have advised that residents in parts of Capelulo, around the Fairy Glen public house, should evacuate the area due to smoke. Residents in the affected area are asked to leave safely and follow the instructions of the emergency services on scene.”

The designated place of safety for residents has been moved. Their statement read: “Following advice from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the place of safety for evacuated residents has now been moved. Penmaenmawr Golf Club is now closed, and The Gladstone is now acting as the designated place of safety for residents affected by the precautionary evacuation.

Jami Jennings from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters remain on scene working in challenging conditions to contain the fire and protect surrounding communities, property, infrastructure and the environment. The incident involves a coordinated response from multiple fire appliances, specialist wildfire resources and partner agencies.

“Due to the size and complexity of the incident, operations are expected to continue for some time. We would ask members of the public to avoid the affected area to allow emergency services to work safely and efficiently. Please follow any road closures, evacuation advice or safety instructions issued by the emergency services.“Residents in nearby communities of Dwygyfylchi and Penmaenmawr should keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke and seek medical advice if they experience breathing difficulties. Motorists are advised to expect delays and consider alternative routes.“Wildfires can spread rapidly, particularly during periods of hot, dry and windy weather. We continue to ask everyone to act responsibly by avoiding the use of disposable barbecues, ensuring cigarettes are fully extinguished and reporting any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.“This response is being managed in close collaboration with our partners, including the police, ambulance service, local authority, landowners and environmental agencies.“We will continue to assess the situation and deploy resources where they are needed most.”

The statement says North Wales Police is coordinating the evacuation strategy for residents who are being told to attend an agreed rest centre.”

“We appreciate the patience and co-operation of the community and would also like to thank our firefighters, control staff, partner agencies and volunteers whose professionalism and commitment are helping to bring this incident under control.“We will provide further updates as more information becomes available through our official communication channels,” it continues.

A spokesperson for North Wales Police said: “The road is currently closed on Conwy Old Road, Dwygyfylchi, due to a fire. Additionally, can local residents please keep all doors and windows closed for the time being.”

You can follow live updates from the incident below: