Wildfire spotted from space as helicopter brought in to tackle blaze
Satellite imagery has confirmed significant wildfire damage across the Rhinogydd mountains in north Wales, with heat signatures detected in multiple other regions. Authorities have deployed aerial firefighting support and issued warnings to the public to avoid restricted areas.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the increasing frequency of wildfires in the UK and the growing reliance on satellite monitoring for emergency management.
Image source, Planet Labs PBC Image caption, This satellite image shows plumes of smoke coming from the Rhinogydd mountains in Gwynedd, north Wales
Satellite images have captured plumes of smoke and damage caused by a wildfire in north Wales.
Data gathered by BBC Verify suggests an estimated 951 hectares (2,350 acres) of the Rhinogydd mountains in Gwynedd have been burned by a wildfire which broke out earlier this month.
Nasa's satellite-based FIRMS monitoring system has also detected heat signatures from four areas of Wales where wildfires have broken out.
It is showing heat sources at Blaenavon in Torfaen, Presteigne in Powys, and Pentre Halkyn in Flintshire.
Natural Resources Wales said a specialist firefighting helicopter will be deployed to Rhinogydd on Friday morning after calls for "aerial support".
Image source, Pat O'Neill Image caption, People living close to the Rhinogydd mountains have been advised to keep doors and windows closed
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