Moorland blaze could last 'days' as firefighters battle blaze

Firefighters are bracing for a prolonged battle against a significant moorland fire in Greater Manchester, which began on Saturday and has since merged with a separate blaze miles away. The fire at Dove Stone Reservoir in Greenfield, Saddleworth, now extends to Tintwistle Moor near Glossop, presenting a formidable challenge.

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We've had a couple of helicopters dropping water as well, but also doing reconnaissance.

Clive Stanbrook of Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service described the fire's spread as rapid, fueled by tinder-dry conditions and unpredictable winds. Crews are employing multiple tactics, including water drops from helicopters and aerial reconnaissance using drones and aircraft, to contain the flames. Stanbrook emphasized the scale of the operation, noting the extensive support from Mountain Rescue and a coastguard plane.

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Mountain Rescue have been absolutely fantastic and provided their drone. We've also had a coastguard plane as well to do reconnaissance of the actual area.

"I envisage our firefighters are going to be on these moors for a number of days, I am sure of it - there is no significant rainfall forecast, the temperatures are due to remain high," stated Ben Levy, an area manager for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. As of Tuesday, approximately 70 firefighters, 11 fire engines, and four wildfire units were deployed to the scene.

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That's just a taste of the scale that we're dealing with at the moment.

The incident has led to legal action, with a 20-year-old woman appearing in court charged with arson. The fire on Tintwistle Moor, which started on June 24, was declared a major incident on Sunday, with authorities citing "challenging conditions" for the emergency services.

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I envisage our firefighters are going to be on these moors for a number of days, I am sure of it - there is no significant rainfall forecast, the temperatures are due to remain high.