UK heatwave: firefighters tackle Derbyshire wildfire after June heat record smashed again

Crews have contained a large wildfire on Tintwistle Moor in Derbyshire after the blaze burned for about 40 hours during a record-breaking UK heatwave.

The fire, near Glossop, spread across about 200 hectares of moorland, according to The Times. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service deployed six fire engines, moorland support teams and a water-dropping helicopter, while local coverage said smoke warnings were issued and people were urged to keep away from the area.

The incident came as the UK’s June temperature record was broken again, with 37.3C recorded in Suffolk, and the Met Office issued a rare red heat alert amid the wider European heatwave.

Fire on the moor

Guardian reporting said firefighters were still working on the moorland blaze after it had been burning for more than 24 hours, with crews focusing on the remote terrain and the dry conditions that helped the fire spread.

The Times later reported that the fire had been contained after about 40 hours. The wildfire was also described as a reminder of the danger posed by campfires and discarded cigarettes in tinder-dry conditions.

Local impact

Tintwistle Moor sits close to the A628 Woodhead Pass, and smoke from the fire caused disruption in the area. Residents in nearby towns and villages were advised to avoid the area and keep windows closed because of smoke.

The immediate public-safety concerns were not only the fire itself but also the effect of smoke on nearby communities and the wider strain on local transport.

Heatwave context

The wildfire broke out during a period of exceptional heat across the UK and Europe. The record June temperature, along with the red heat alert, highlighted how quickly wildfire risk can escalate when moorland and other open ground dries out.

Officials have not yet publicly confirmed the cause of the fire, and it remains unclear whether any homes, businesses or protected habitats were directly damaged.

Further updates are likely on whether the blaze was fully extinguished, whether road closures have been lifted and whether investigators identify an ignition source.