Major Wildfire Engulfs Moorland Near Greater Manchester Amidst Heatwave

A significant wildfire continues to rage across moorland near Glossop, close to Greater Manchester, having burned for more than 24 hours.

The fire, located on Tintwistle Moor, has scorched an area exceeding 500 square meters of moorland and woodland. Thick plumes of smoke are impacting nearby villages, including Tintwistle, Hollingworth, and Woolley Bridge. Drone footage shared by the Derbyshire fire and rescue service shows the rapid spread of flames through dense woodland.

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The fire is affecting approximately 500 square metres of moorland and woodland. Wildfires like this require a huge response and people are asked to keep this in mind as the warm weather continues.

Since igniting around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, the response has involved a water-dropping helicopter, six fire engines, and specialized moorland support teams. Firefighters anticipate remaining on-site overnight to contain the blaze. Residents across a wide area, as far as Bolton and Rochdale, have reported smelling smoke and finding ash in their gardens and on vehicles.

The Woodhead Pass (A628), a vital route connecting Manchester and South Yorkshire, is closed in both directions. This fire occurs amidst record-breaking June temperatures in the UK, with severe heat-health alerts in effect. Fire officials are urging the public to exercise extreme caution, as dry conditions mean even a small spark from campfires, barbecues, or discarded cigarettes can quickly escalate into a major incident.

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The ground is tinder dry and the slightest spark from a campfire, a tiny burning ember from a barbecue, or a flake of ash from a discarded cigarette could soon escalate to a major incident so please act responsibly.