Suffolk Coast Wildfire Escalates Into Major Incident, Hundreds of Firefighters Mobilized

A large, wind-driven wildfire broke out on Dunwich Heath along the Suffolk coast on Wednesday afternoon, prompting Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service to declare a major incident. Around 90 firefighters have been working in difficult conditions, employing off-road vehicles, drones and quad bikes to contain the blaze that is advancing southwest toward St James’s Church off Westleton Road. The fire is burning through a National Trust-owned nature reserve and lies close to the RSPB Minsmere reserve, both of which are supporting the effort.

Officials have asked residents and visitors to avoid the area, keep doors and windows closed, and keep roads clear for emergency access. The incident coincides with an amber heat-health alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency for the East Midlands, the East, South East and London. The situation remains fluid as crews continue to fight the rapidly spreading flames.