Wildfires have engulfed swathes of the UK as a blistering heatwave continues to grip the nation, with fire chiefs warning of "extreme pressure" on emergency services. The National Fire Chiefs Council chair, Phil Garrigan, revealed that nearly 20 fires remain active nationwide.
Major incidents were declared in Conwy, North Wales, and Glossop, Derbyshire, with the latter located in the Peak District. While crews have brought the Conwy wildfire under control, multiple blazes persist in the region, including a significant fire at Braichmelyn forestry near Bethesda and one in the Rhinogydd mountain range.
In the Peak District, firefighters are battling a major moorland fire at Tintwistle Moor near Dovestone Reservoir. The blaze has consumed around 260 hectares (642 acres) of moorland and woodland since starting on June 24. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service senior fire chief Ben Levy described the conditions as "very challenging" and predicted a tough day ahead for firefighters.
A 20-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the Tintwistle Moor incident, following reports that fireworks were discharged in the area. While dry weather is the catalyst for wildfires, a source of ignition – such as a discarded cigarette or barbecue – must always be present to start a blaze. However, the prolonged drought rapidly dries out vegetation, turning it into highly flammable fuel that allows fires to spread at alarming speed.
Natural England has issued a "very high" risk warning for fires across large parts of England and Wales over the coming days due to the ongoing lack of rainfall. Fire services are bracing themselves for continued demand as emergency chiefs urge the public to exercise extreme caution in rural areas to prevent further ignitions.