A moorland fire near Greater Manchester has broken out this afternoon (July 16) following a dramatic car crash on the A628 Woodhead Pass. National Highways confirmed the road is closed in both directions between the A57 (Hollingworth) and A616 (Flouch) as firefighters tackle the blaze.
Car Fire Spreads to Moorland
Shocking photos from the scene show a black car completely engulfed in flames after leaving the road and crashing on adjacent moorland just after 1:30pm. The fire has since spread from the vehicle to nearby woodland, with smoke and flames visible.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is leading the response, with four fire engines at the scene. A fire engine from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and a support vehicle from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue are also in attendance. Fire crews were first alerted at 1:33pm.
Public Urged to Avoid Area
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said: "Four fire engines from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue are in attendance at a wildfire near Woodhead Pass between Hazlehead and Woodhead. A fire engine from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and a support vehicle from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue are also in attendance. Fire crews were first alerted at 1:33pm."
The spokesperson added: "The fire was caused by a car fire which spread to nearby moorland. Woodhead Pass is currently closed between the A57 (Hollingworth) and the A616 (Flouch) and we are asking the public to avoid the area and if you need to travel, plan your route accordingly."
Traffic Diversions in Place
National Highways stated: "The A628 Woodhead Pass is closed in both directions between the A57 (Hollingworth) and the A616 (Flouch) due to a moorland fire. Fire and Rescue Services have several crews working at the scene."
Traffic is being diverted via local routes, and motorists from further afield are advised to use alternative trans-pennine routes such as the M1, M62, and M60. Drivers are urged to allow extra journey time and consider delaying travel if possible.
