New data has revealed the devastating effect of the ongoing moorland fires across Greater Manchester, as air quality in almost all regions has deteriorated. Dozens of firefighters continue to tackle two major wildfires on the moors near Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham and on Tintwistle Moor near Glossop.
Air Quality Worsens Across the Region
According to air quality website IQ Air, as of Wednesday morning (July 15), all areas of Greater Manchester are now classed as having air quality that is either moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, or unhealthy. Only the Shaw area of Oldham is classified as having 'good' air quality, with an AQI value of 50. The website advises that an AQI value of 0-50 represents good air quality.
Stockport remains the hardest hit by smoke, now showing an AQI value of 195 compared to 154 yesterday. Withington is also classified as having 'unhealthy' levels of smoke, scoring 174 AQI, up from around 97 AQI yesterday. Other badly affected areas include Chorlton-cum-Hardy and Heald Green, which have moved into the 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' category.
IQ Air's Air Quality Index measures six key pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide, to produce a single number reflecting air quality. According to the website, any value exceeding 151 increases the likelihood of adverse effects and aggravation to the heart and lungs among the general public, particularly for sensitive groups. The website recommends that everyone should avoid outdoor exercise, wear a pollution mask outdoors, avoid ventilation, and turn on air purifiers in areas with an AQI between 151 and 200.
Health Experts Issue Warning
Health experts have issued urgent warnings to people living in areas affected by wildfire smoke. Young children, elderly people, and those with underlying respiratory conditions are advised to limit exposure to the smoke as much as possible. Even healthy adults have been cautioned against exercising outside.
Matt Swallow, a GP specializing in respiratory medicine and clinical lead at the Asthma and Lung charity, told the Manchester Evening News that it was 'sensible' to avoid exercising outdoors in these conditions. "Wildfire smoke has lots of fine particles in it, which can travel deeper into the lungs and cause irritation and inflammation," he said. "When exercising, you are breathing in even more. If there is visible smoke and a strong smell, moving exercise indoors is the safer option, or avoiding it altogether."
"For healthy adults, it will just cause short-term effects, but those who are really young or old, or who have asthma or COPD, are at greater risk," he added. "My advice is to continue taking prescribed medication. Bring it with you at all times, and reduce outdoor exposure. You might need your medication more frequently than you usually would - if you notice that it is no longer having the same effect, seek medical advice."
Firefighting Efforts Continue
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) were first called to Dovestone on Saturday night. A major incident was declared on Monday afternoon, and on Tuesday, they reported that 70 firefighters were still tackling the blaze. Eleven fire engines and four wildfire units are on the scene. Crews continue to work to reduce hotspots as huge plumes of thick smoke billow for miles from the moorland.
A woman, aged 20, was arrested on suspicion of arson over the Dovestone wildfire. Shania Care-Slede, of Market Street, Hyde, has been charged and has appeared in court.
The wildfire at Tintwistle, above Woodhead Road in Glossop, first broke out nearly three weeks ago amid the heatwave on June 24. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident as the blaze raged on.
In an update at 12pm Tuesday, a GMFRS spokesperson said: "The moorland fire remains active but is currently in a steady state, with around 70 firefighters, 11 fire engines and four wildfire units from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service continuing to make progress across the area. Crews remain on scene carrying out firefighting operations to contain and reduce hotspots, supported by partner agencies. Progress throughout today will be influenced by weather conditions, which continue to be closely monitored. Road closures remain in place and members of the public are urged not to travel to the area."
"Keeping access routes clear is essential to ensure emergency vehicles, specialist equipment and partner agencies can operate safely and effectively. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of local communities while this work continues. People in the surrounding area may continue to experience smoke, with conditions likely to change depending on wind direction and weather patterns. If there is visible smoke, stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed where necessary. Once the smoke has moved away, consider opening doors and windows to allow properties to cool down, being mindful of changing conditions. Emergency services and partner organisations continue to work closely together and will provide further updates as the situation develops."
