NewsUK NewsWildfiresResidents as far as 30 miles away from a major wildfire in Blaenavon, South Wales, have reported smelling strong smoke after a 'change in wind direction overnight'11:18, 21 Jul 2026Updated 11:34, 21 Jul 2026A major wildfire in Wales has left residents in multiple areas battling a foul stench as fire crews warned them to close their windows.‌Several 999 calls were made after the blaze first erupted on Sunday evening in Blaenavon, which covers around 80 hectares of mixed land of bracken and gorse in South Wales.‌Residents as far away as Cardiff and Newport have now reported smelling strong smoke due to a "change in wind direction overnight," South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) said.‌Crews are continuing to tackle the blaze, with efforts so far hampered by the difficult terrain, access and wind conditions.The fire service said smoke from the fire could be seen up to 10 miles away and urged residents not to be concerned if they could smell or see it, reports Wales Online.A SWFRS spokesperson said: "Crews spent the night dealing with a significant wildfire in the Blaenavon area, having received the initial call at 8.42pm on Sunday July 19.‌"This morning, six appliances and a water bowser remain at the scene, supported by SWFRS tactical wildfire officers who are specially trained and highly skilled in responding to these incidents."The wildfire currently covers around 80 hectares of mixed land of bracken and gorse. Crews have been working in challenging conditions due to the terrain, access and the wind conditions.‌"A change in wind direction overnight has seen smoke from the incident impacting a large area of South Wales, and is reported as far south as Caerphilly and Cardiff. SWFRS is advising anyone affected by this smoke to close their windows and doors."SWFRS is receiving a high volume of calls reporting the smoke, however the service would like to reassure communities that they are aware and are dealing with the incident which has caused it. People are being advised to stay away from the area, to allow the emergency response to continue."People across South Wales including Caerphilly, Newport and Cardiff have also reported smelling strong smoke from the fire.Article continues belowSouth Wales Fire and Rescue Service has asked the public not to call to report the smoke unless they believe they have spotted a separate fire. The wildfire remains ongoing.The fire service is also tackling a separate grass fire in Treherbert, in the South Wales Valleys.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Newport CorporationWildfires