'Significant' wildfire rages on Tintwistle Moor as smoke billows across Greater Manchester
Six fire engines and crews from Greater Manchester are tackling the blaze, which broke out on Wednesday evening and has spread across 400 metres-squared of moorland and woodland near Glossop.
A "significant" wildfire is continuing to rage on moorland near Glossop, with huge plumes of smoke seen billowing into the air across the region.
The fire broke out on Tintwistle Moor at around 10pm on Wednesday evening (June 24). Large flames and smoke could be spotted from the Woodhead Pass as it spread across an estimated 400 metres-squared of moorland and woodland.
People have been urged to avoid the area, with nearby residents told to keep windows and doors shut.
What is the emergency response?
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Six fire engines supported by a water carrier and welfare unit are now in attendance on Tintwistle Moor. Firefighters from Chapel-en-le-Frith, Buxton, Hathersage, Glossop and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's Hyde and Stalybridge stations are on scene."
Crews are working alongside the Peak District Fire Operations Group, Peak Park rangers, the RSPB, the Eastern Moors Partnership and United Utilities.
The fire service described it as "a significant fire" and urged the public to "continue to follow advice."
What has the local MP said?
Jon Pearce, MP for High Peak, said crews were working in "challenging conditions." He said: "High Peak is the most vulnerable constituency to wildfires in the UK, and it's vital that we all do our part to protect our moorlands, countryside and communities, especially during periods of hot, dry weather like we're experiencing now."
He thanked emergency services who "worked through the night" and urged residents: "If you can see or smell smoke, keep your windows and doors closed where possible, and avoid the area to allow crews to continue their work safely."
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the wildfire taking place?
- The fire is located on Tintwistle Moor near Glossop, close to the Woodhead Pass, and covers around 400 square metres of moorland and woodland.
- What should local residents do?
- People living near the moorland are advised to keep their windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering their homes, and the public is urged to avoid the area.
- Which emergency services are responding?
- Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service is leading the operation, with assistance from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service crews from Hyde and Stalybridge, alongside various wildlife and park agencies.