Firefighters are grappling with a large-scale wildfire at Dunwich Heath, a National Trust property on the Suffolk coast, prompting a major incident declaration on Wednesday evening. The blaze, reported shortly after 5:30pm, is spreading rapidly across the heathland, threatening nearby landmarks.
Fire Spreads Towards Historical Church
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the flames are advancing south-west towards St James' Church, off Westleton Road. The public has been urged to avoid the area near Sizewell B nuclear power station, keep roads clear for emergency vehicles, and close windows and doors if smoke is present in the vicinity.
90 Firefighters Deployed in Arduous Conditions
Station Manager Dan Davis of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service provided an update: "Crews from Leiston attended the scene and were met with what is a large-scale, wind-driven forestry fire. The incident has subsequently been upgraded to a major incident. We currently have approximately 90 firefighters on scene working incredibly hard in arduous conditions to bring this fire under control." Davis added reassurance that crews will remain on site until the fire is fully contained.
The major incident declaration comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an amber heat-health alert covering the East Midlands, East of England, South East, and London. The warning, in effect until 9am on Thursday, highlights increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.
Separate Wildfire in Cairngorms Shows Progress
Meanwhile, in Scotland, emergency services reported "significant progress" in tackling a wildfire in the Cairngorms that ignited a fortnight ago. Several properties in the remote area were evacuated as plumes of smoke darkened the sky, leaving vast swathes of woodland, heather, and grassland charred and blackened.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys told the Press Association that firefighters are making headway but warned of a high risk of flare-ups. "It's been an absolutely devastating fire for wildlife and for the local community who have come out in force to really support us, which we really do appreciate," he said. "To control this fire, we've had to put in place a significant number of fire breaks."
