A major wildfire emergency has unfolded across parts of Wales, with dozens of homes evacuated, roads closed and communities warned to take extreme care as hot and dry conditions continue.
The UK government issued an emergency alert to mobile phones across England and Wales on Friday, warning of a very high risk of wildfires nationally. People were urged not to light fires outdoors, including barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators and fireworks.
The alert warned that even a small flame could quickly develop into a major wildfire, putting lives, homes, businesses and emergency responders at risk.
Gov.uk An emergency alert was sent to phones in England and Wales on Friday
Military support deployed
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has requested military assistance as firefighters continue to tackle several major incidents.
Stephen Kinnock, Secretary of State for Wales, said military personnel had been deployed to provide logistical support, assist with evacuations where necessary and help reduce pressure on emergency services.
The deployment comes as firefighters face difficult conditions, including high temperatures, changing winds and challenging terrain.
Fire crews attended around 30 incidents across south Wales on Thursday, with significant resources deployed to several locations.
Homes evacuated near Llandovery
A major incident was declared near Llandovery in Carmarthenshire after a wildfire threatened homes and communities.
Around 17 to 20 properties in two streets in Rhandirmwyn were evacuated as a precaution, while road closures remained in place in the area.
Nerys Jones, a community councillor for Rhandirmwyn, described the situation as "scary" as the fire moved towards the village.
She said the local community had worked together to make sure those forced to leave their homes had somewhere safe to stay.
A rest centre was established at Llandovery Leisure Centre, while residents, learners and staff from Elidyr Communities Trust were also evacuated.
The organisation, which supports young adults with complex additional learning needs and disabilities, said everyone in its care was safe and well. Some residents who were able to travel were taken away for a holiday for the weekend.
BBC News - With the hot weather expected to continue this weekend, firefighters are bracing themselves for a busy weekend
Residents describe frightening scenes
People living close to the fires have described how quickly the flames approached their homes.
In Ferndale, Rhondda Cynon Taf, residents were reported to be extremely frightened. One resident, Mark Carmody, said the flames came within around 30 metres of his home.
Firefighters worked to protect buildings and damp down vegetation around properties as the blaze spread.
The situation has also caused significant disruption for local businesses.
Lynn Martin, whose family runs Llanerchindda Farm Guest House near Llandovery, said firefighters had stayed at the property while tackling the blaze.
She said the family had been worried that the fire could reach the guest house and that smoke and fire had made it impossible to see outside.
The business also lost several thousand pounds after weekend bookings were cancelled. However, the accommodation was subsequently used to house firefighters working in the area.
Community rallies behind firefighters
Local residents and businesses have been offering food, accommodation and other assistance to emergency crews and people affected by the fires.
A fish and chip shop has been feeding firefighters and farmers helping to battle the blaze, while local stables have been offered to house horses that may need to be moved away from the fire.
Jonathan Stanley, manager of The Kings Head Inn in Llandovery, said residents had reported hearing the fire from miles away.
The community response has provided vital support as emergency services prepare for further challenges over the weekend.
Police investigate suspected arson
Police are also investigating fires believed to have been deliberately started.
South Wales Police said four 14-year-old boys from Porth had been arrested on suspicion of arson following a "deliberate fire" on a mountain near Pleasant Heights. They have since been released on police bail.
Detective Inspector Steve Jones warned that deliberate fires can place entire communities at risk, threaten wildlife and divert emergency resources away from other incidents.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about deliberate fire-setting to contact police or Crimestoppers.
BBC News Residents described being scared by a flare up in Ferndale, Rhondda Cynon Taf
Warning as hot weather continues
With hot weather expected to continue, firefighters are preparing for another challenging period.
Authorities are urging members of the public to follow the emergency warning and avoid any activity that could start a wildfire.
People are being asked not to light fires, use disposable barbecues or fireworks, or burn materials in gardens and open spaces.
Emergency services say the public can play a crucial role in preventing further fires while crews continue working to bring the current incidents under control.
For communities already affected, the priority remains protecting lives and homes as firefighters, emergency workers, volunteers and military personnel work together to tackle the spreading wildfires.