Major incident declared over coastal heath fire in Suffolk
A major wildfire at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk has prompted authorities to declare a major incident as firefighters struggle against wind-driven flames. The fire is threatening local nature reserves and has led to public warnings to avoid the area.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the increasing risk of wildfires in the UK during periods of extreme heat, impacting both public safety and ecological conservation.
Image source, Rob Forsyth Image caption, Firefighters are tackling a blaze at Dunwich Heath, near Leiston
A large wildfire burning through heathland on the Suffolk coast has been declared a major incident.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service said about 90 firefighters were "working incredibly hard in arduous conditions" to bring under control a "large-scale, wind-driven" fire that broke out on Wednesday afternoon.
A major incident has been declared "due to the size and complexity" of the blaze, which is spreading rapidly south-west towards St James's Church, off Westleton Road, the fire service says.
Authorities have urged people to avoid the area and keep windows and doors shut.
Image source, Rob Forsyth Image caption, The fire service said the blaze was spreading south-west
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in