Major Incident Declared as Wildfire Rages Across Dorset Heathland

A devastating wildfire, measuring over 1,000 meters by 800 meters, has been blazing on Dorset heathland, prompting 20 homes to be evacuated and 100 firefighters to be called out to combat the inferno. The fire at Holt Heath, near Wimborne, spread rapidly due to windy conditions, and although those who fled their homes have now returned, residents have been advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to the dense smoke.

Key Takeaways:

• A major incident has been declared due to the size of the fire at Holt Heath and its impact on fire service resources.
• The fire has spread rapidly across 69 hectares of land, with firefighters working through the night and into Sunday morning to contain the blaze.
• A second heath fire, affecting 21 hectares of land at Newton Heath near Swanage, is still burning, with firefighters tackling it since last Sunday.
• Assistant Chief Fire Officer Darren Langdown has appealed to the public to stay away from the affected areas and refrain from flying drones near the fire.
• Neighbouring services have provided support to Dorset Fire Service, and the fire service is grateful for their assistance.

Statistics:

• Fire crews had to tackle a wildfire measuring over 1,000 meters by 800 meters.
• The fire has affected 69 hectares of land, with 21 hectares of land also affected by the second heath fire at Newton Heath.
• 20 homes were evacuated due to the fire.
• 100 firefighters were called out to combat the blaze.

Sources:

• Dorset Fire Service
• Wessex Rescue