What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire is burning across moorland in the Elan Valley area of Powys, mid-Wales. The wildfire has continued for several days in difficult upland terrain, prompting a large emergency response involving firefighters and helicopters.
Dry vegetation and warm weather conditions have contributed to the fire’s persistence across the remote landscape (1).
Fire map of Elan Valley, Powys, mid-Wales as of May 1, 2026. Source: IQAir.
Which cities or areas are affected by the Elan Valley Fire?
The Elan Valley Fire is affecting several areas in Powys, including:
- Cwmystwyth
- Elan Valley
- Rhayader
Smoke and emergency activity have also affected surrounding rural communities and nearby upland recreation areas in mid-Wales (2).
What is the current containment status of the Elan Valley Fire?
As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire remains active after burning for five consecutive days. Fire crews and helicopters continue suppression efforts across difficult terrain, with authorities working to contain remaining hotspots.
Officials have not released a containment percentage, but firefighting operations remain ongoing as changing weather and dry ground conditions continue to complicate efforts (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
No mandatory evacuation orders have been reported. However, authorities have urged the public to avoid the Elan Valley and surrounding upland areas while firefighting operations continue.
Public safety warnings remain in place due to smoke, active fire zones, and the presence of emergency aircraft and ground crews operating across the region (4).
Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
See how a wildfire smoke air purifier can help clean your air.
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
