Overview of the Moorland Wildfire
A major incident has been declared as firefighters continue to combat a large-scale moorland wildfire that began nearly three weeks ago.
The fire on Tintwistle Moor in Glossop, Derbyshire, started on 24 June and has impacted approximately 260 hectares (642 acres) of moorland and woodland.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service declared the major incident on Sunday, citing "challenging conditions" faced by firefighting crews.
Firefighters returned to the site at 01:15 BST on Monday after reports indicated the fire had intensified due to strong winds.
On Monday, the service confirmed that five fire engines along with specialist equipment were deployed to tackle the blaze, warning that operations were expected to continue for "some time".
Initial Response and Ongoing Efforts
The wildfire triggered a significant response when it began in June, coinciding with temperatures reaching 34C (93F) amid a UK-wide heatwave.
Fire crews initially left the scene on 2 July, while water company United Utilities and the broader Peak District Fire Operations Group continued to dampen the affected area.
However, firefighters were called back on Thursday due to another heatwave impacting much of England — the third this year.
Related Wildfires in the Region
In addition to the Tintwistle Moor fire, firefighters are addressing a blaze on moors above Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, Saddleworth, which has produced smoke plumes visible across Greater Manchester.
Meanwhile, in north Wales, 36 homes were evacuated after a wildfire broke out near Conwy Mountain and the Sychnant Pass in Conwy county on Sunday.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
The Met Office has forecast windy conditions in some areas on Monday, with the possibility of light rain in parts of the country.
Despite this, the forecaster noted that the hot weather experienced across much of the UK is expected to persist into the week.
Fire Service Statement and Public Advisory
Ellie Gillatt, area manager for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, stated:
"Firefighters continue to face challenging conditions as they work to tackle the wildfire and protect the surrounding infrastructure and environment.
This remains a significant and complex incident, requiring a protracted, multi-agency response."
She urged the public to avoid the affected area and adhere to any road and footpath closures in place.
The fire service has not yet determined the cause of the blaze.
Contact and Further Information
Members of the public are encouraged to share story ideas and updates related to Derby by contacting BBC Radio Derby on Sounds, or following BBC Derby on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story submissions can be sent via email to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or through WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210.
and Additional Coverage
- Crews tackle flare-up of wildfire in woodland
- Crews return to moorland wildfire two weeks on
- Firefighters leave scene of major moorland wildfire
- Crews tackle moorland wildfire for seventh day
- Walkers warned as firefighters return to moorland
- Wildfire expected to spread due to heatwave as 36 homes evacuated
- Firefighters continue to battle moorland blazes
