A major incident was declared after a large wildfire broke out at Dunwich Heath, a National Trust nature reserve in Suffolk, on Wednesday evening, forcing the evacuation of around 200 caravans from a nearby holiday park.
Firefighters were called to the blaze at approximately 5:30pm. The fire spread rapidly, and at its height up to 90 firefighters with 14 fire engines and specialist equipment were battling the flames. The cause of the fire remains unclear.
Evacuation and response
Around 200 caravans at Cliff House Holiday Park were evacuated overnight. Some holidaymakers reported being told to 'go immediately' with no time to pack their belongings. One man told Hits Radio News that police officers asked people to leave, and others had to be evacuated with just what they were wearing.
Incident commander Christopher May of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service said crews would remain on scene for the next 24 to 48 hours due to the size and complexity of the blaze. 'Our crews have been firefighting throughout the night to ensure that they protect life and property,' he said.
No risk to nuclear plant
The fire is located a few miles from Sizewell B, the UK's largest nuclear power station. Suffolk County Council confirmed that at this time there is no risk to Sizewell B due to the distance from the fire and the direction it is travelling (easterly).
Road closures and public advice
Suffolk Highways implemented several road closures, including full closure of Minsmere Road/Westleton Road junction and partial closures on Dunwich Road and other routes. The public is urged to avoid the area, keep roads clear for emergency vehicles, and keep windows and doors closed if smoke is nearby.
The National Trust has closed Dunwich Heath and asked people to avoid the area to enable access for emergency services.
Witness accounts
Justin North and his wife were staying at a holiday cottage at Dunwich Cliffs. They noticed smoke at 5:30pm but did not think much of it. Hours later, they were told to 'go immediately' and had to sleep in their car before accessing the evacuation centre at Westleton Village Hall.
Another witness, Karl Adams, said the fire appeared to have 'dramatically increased' overnight, with bright yellow flames and thick smoke visible from miles away.
Smoke from the fire was reported as far away as Lowestoft, about 20 miles from the scene. Moderate to heavy rain is forecast over Dunwich on Friday, which may assist firefighting efforts.
