Firefighters Battle Major Blaze on Anglesey Peak, Mynydd Bodafon

A significant gorse fire erupted on Mynydd Bodafon in Llanerchymedd, Anglesey, on the evening of Friday, March 15, 2024, prompting a rapid response from firefighters across North Wales. As crews continue to dampen down the area, the impact of the blaze has left a stark mark on the landscape.

Images from the scene reveal extensive damage, with scorched earth evident across the peak. A road in the vicinity may have functioned as a fire break, helping to limit the spread of the flames. A video shared by TMA Droning captured the aftermath, showing the remnants of the fire. The operator noted, “The devastation left of last night’s Mynydd Bodafon fire; we are lucky no one was hurt and no houses were caught up in it.”

Firefighters were first called to the scene at 20:39, with multiple teams from Amlwch, Benllech, Llangefni, Menai Bridge, and Caernarfon responding to the emergency. As the situation developed, additional crews arrived, including those from Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, and Denbighshire. By the following day, approximately 5:30 PM, firefighting personnel from Holyhead, Bangor, Nefyn, Cerrigydrudion, and Denbigh were actively engaged in controlling the fire.

A spokesperson from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews were still present at Mynydd Bodafon, including teams from Betws-y-Coed, Denbighshire, and Corwen. As of this afternoon, multiple flare-ups had occurred, with reports of at least three mini fires reigniting. Firefighters swiftly addressed these incidents as they emerged.

While unverified accounts on social media suggest the fire may have been ignited by a discarded cigarette or a spark from a barbecue, the official cause has not yet been established. Authorities are currently assessing the situation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the outbreak.

The community has expressed relief that no injuries or property damage occurred, underscoring the effectiveness of the emergency response. The resilience of the local firefighting teams has been commendable, showcasing their commitment to safeguarding both the environment and the residents of Anglesey.

As efforts to fully extinguish the flames continue, updates from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service will provide further insights into the situation and any potential safety advisories for the community.