Major Incident Declared as Wildfires Ravage Peak District Moorland
A major incident has been declared as ‘large-scale wildfires’ continue to ravage moors just outside Greater Manchester. Fire crews have been tackling the blaze on Tintwistle Moor, near Tameside, for several days, with the fire already burning an area equivalent to 350 football pitches. Officials warn that firefighting operations will continue ‘for some time’.
The latest update, issued just before 11pm on Sunday (July 12), urged the public to avoid the region, a popular hiking spot in the Peak District National Park. Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) area manager Ellie Gillatt advised neighbors to close their windows. “Firefighters continue to face challenging conditions as they work to tackle the wildfire and protect the surrounding infrastructure and environment,” she said.
Multi-Agency Response Underway
DFRS has deployed multiple fire appliances and specialist wildfire resources, supported by neighboring fire services and partner agencies including the Peak District Fire Operations Group, United Utilities, Derby Mountain Rescue, and Derbyshire Constabulary. “This remains a significant and complex incident, requiring a protracted, multi-agency response,” Gillatt added.
While active firefighting operations paused for the evening, they are set to resume in the morning and are expected to continue for some time due to the scale of the wildfire and challenging terrain. The public has been urged to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work safely. “Please follow any road and footpath closures, and keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke,” Gillatt said.
Hot Weather Fuels Fire Risk
Wildfires can spread rapidly after a long spell of hot and dry weather, as Greater Manchester has experienced this summer. It only takes a spark to burn ‘tinder dry’ moorland. The fire service has again urged people to be responsible after images emerged of visitors setting off fireworks at nearby Dovestones reservoir on Saturday (July 11).
Campfires, barbecues, and cigarettes should not be lit on dry moorland, and all rubbish should be taken home to remove potential fuel for a fire. Gillatt added: “We appreciate the continued patience and co-operation of our communities at this time. We would also like to extend a thanks to our firefighters, control staff and partner agencies whose tireless efforts and dedication are helping to bring this incident to the safest and most effective conclusion possible.”
Wider Wildfire Outbreaks Across UK
The major incident comes as wildfires also hit Somerset, Dorset, and North Wales during Britain’s third heatwave of 2026. Further updates on the Peak District fire will be provided via the DFRS website and other official communication channels.
