MAJOR INCIDENT DECLARED AS WILDFIRE SPREADS NEAR SIZEWELL B

A major incident has been declared as Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service battles a large-scale wildfire at Dunwich Heath, a National Trust site near Leiston on the Suffolk coast. The service was called to reports of the heathland fire shortly after 5.30pm on Wednesday. Flames are spreading south-west towards St James' Church, off Westleton Road. The public have been urged to avoid the area close to Sizewell B nuclear power station, keep roads clear for emergency vehicles, and close windows and doors if smoke becomes present.

Station manager Dan Davis from Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service described crews arriving at the scene and encountering "a large-scale, wind-driven forestry fire". The incident was subsequently upgraded to a major incident "due to the size and complexity" of the fire. Approximately 90 firefighters are working on scene in what the service characterised as arduous conditions. Mr Davis stated: "I'd like to provide reassurance that we are going to remain on scene until we bring this fire under control."

The fire declaration follows the UK Health Security Agency issuing an amber heat-health alert covering the East Midlands, the East, South East and London. The amber alert indicates heightened concern over health risks during the period of elevated temperatures affecting those regions. No statement has yet been issued regarding any potential impact on operations at the Sizewell B nuclear power station.