A wildfire that erupted on Beeley Moor, Derbyshire, was traced back to a controlled burn that became uncontrollable due to sudden changes in weather conditions. Emergency services were alerted to the incident on Tuesday, April 8, at approximately 2:40 PM, prompting a swift mobilisation of fire crews.
In total, eight fire crews from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to the blaze, which produced substantial smoke visible from considerable distances. The fire ultimately scorched nearly 45 hectares of land. Firefighters worked diligently through the afternoon and into the evening to extinguish the flames, employing various tools, including beaters, water backpacks, and hose reel jets. Their efforts continued until they left the scene shortly before 9 PM.
The following day, on Wednesday, April 9, a reinspection of the area was conducted, and the incident was fully resolved at around 6:30 AM, marking nearly 17 hours since the initial alert.
Station Manager Mark King, the wildfire lead for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, commented on the incident, stating: "Landowners routinely carry out controlled burning to manage vegetation and minimise the risk of wildfires, following strict laws and codes of practice as set out by the government and local wildfire control plans." He further clarified that, "However, conditions can change in an instant and on this occasion the weather changed rapidly with strong winds causing the controlled burn to spread and turn into wildfire." King extended his gratitude to the fire crews for their efforts in challenging circumstances to manage the situation and protect the local community, wildlife, and ecosystem.
This incident comes in the wake of a previous wildfire that severely damaged Howden Moor just weeks earlier, causing an estimated £30,000 worth of harm and devastating approximately two square kilometres of wildlife habitat. Although the cause of that fire remains undetermined, the National Trust suggested that many such fires are typically ignited by human activities, either accidentally or deliberately.
In light of these incidents, authorities at the Peak District National Park have indicated that certain areas are currently experiencing a heightened risk of fire and have urged visitors to exercise caution in the countryside as the dry weather persists. They caution against lighting open fires or barbecues anywhere within the park and encourage visitors to responsibly manage their litter. The importance of disposing of cigarettes safely was also highlighted.
To further address the fire risk in the region, additional signage has been deployed along roads in the Peak District to alert the public to the dangers of wildfires. For anyone observing smoke or fire in the countryside, authorities stress the importance of calling 999 and requesting the fire service.
Source: Noah Wire Services