Wildfires are continuing to spread across parts of the UK as firefighters face “extreme pressure” due to prolonged hot and dry conditions, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned.
Blazes have affected several areas in recent days, including Hampshire, Durham, West Sussex, East Sussex, Devon and Somerset, as emergency crews battle challenging conditions caused by high temperatures, strong winds and dry vegetation.
In Wales, a major incident declared over the Conwy Mountain wildfire has now been brought under control, according to North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. However, firefighters remain at the scene of several active fires, including those in Braichmelyn forestry near Bethesda and the Rhinogydd mountain range near Harlech.
Farmer Gareth Wyn Jones, whose land borders Conwy Mountain, described the wildfire as the worst he had ever witnessed.
“It was unreal,” he said, explaining that while ponies grazing on the mountain escaped safely, there were fears for nearby livestock as flames spread across surrounding land.
He said the main concern was that animals could have been affected by heavy smoke, but confirmed that his neighbour’s pigs survived the blaze.
In England, emergency crews are continuing efforts to contain a large moorland fire at Tintwistle Moor near Dovestone Reservoir in the Peak District.
Around 30 to 40 firefighters remain involved in tackling the blaze, which began on 24 June and has burned approximately 260 hectares (642 acres) of moorland and woodland.
Ben Levy, a senior fire officer at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, warned crews were facing a “very challenging and gruelling day” as weather conditions continued to fuel the fire.
He urged members of the public to take extra care in rural areas and avoid activities that could accidentally trigger further wildfires.
A 20-year-old woman from Hyde has been charged with offences including aggravated arson, reckless endangerment of life and dangerous driving in connection with the Dovestone fire, according to Greater Manchester Police.
In Dorset, firefighters also responded to a wildfire on heathland near Agglestone, Studland, after smoke was reported on Monday evening. Crews from seven fire stations worked to control the blaze, with relief teams remaining in the area.
Natural England has warned of a “very high” or “exceptional” wildfire risk across large parts of England and Wales in the coming days.
Although dry weather alone does not cause wildfires, it significantly increases the likelihood of fires spreading once an ignition source is present. Sparks from barbecues, discarded cigarettes and other human activity can quickly ignite dry vegetation.
Fire experts say prolonged heat removes moisture from plants and grass, turning them into highly flammable fuel that allows fires to grow rapidly.
The current wildfire conditions reflect warnings from climate scientists that human-driven climate change is contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves, alongside an increased risk of summer droughts.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant as the UK continues to experience extreme summer weather and firefighters work under mounting pressure.