AN “APOCALYPTIC” fire has ravaged nearly 200 acres of picturesque moorland in the heart of Meirionnydd.

Emergency services were called to a large and devastating fire in the open at approximately 5pm last Thursday afternoon (13 December) near Llyn Cregennen, Arthog.

Fortunately no injuries, livestock losses, or property fires were reported.

The Cambrian News understands that it was a controlled burn which got out of control due to high winds.

Gwynedd councillor Louise Hughes, who represents the area, saw the fire first hand.

“I went up to Cregennen Lakes to check on the situation and make sure people in my ward living up there were safe,” she said.

“The police and five fire units were there monitoring the fire and the wind was ferocious.

“It was apocalyptic – I’ve never seen anything like it.

“I returned the following day to see the aftermath, the smell of burnt gorse was pungent but the fire seems to be out completely, thank goodness. Nobody was hurt, there was no damage to any property and no sheep got caught in the fire.

“It was incredibly lucky that the fire didn’t engulf any trees or it could have been so much worse.”

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spent hours battling the blaze and encouraged residents in the local area to keep their windows and doors closed.

A spokesperson for the fire service warned anyone conducting controlled burns to be vigilant.

Speaking after the fire was under control, a statement made by the fire service read: “We attended a large moorland fire last night in the Arthog area, Gwynedd, which diverted our resources for some considerable time.

“Please check the weather conditions before a burn – wind strength will have a big impact on a fire.

“Remember fire can spread quicker than you can run. Make sure you always call us before you burn.

“If you light it, don’t leave it – it’s your responsibility.”