Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Drone video shows Saddleworth Moor fire raging in UK heatwave

More than 50 homes have been evacuated, affecting 150 people

Lisa Collins
Wednesday 27 June 2018 11:55 EDT
Comments
Drone video shows Saddleworth Moor fire raging in UK heatwave

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

As the army arrived to try to contain the blaze, new drone footage reveals the extent of destruction as a huge moorland fire continued to rage.

The inferno continues to spread over 3.7 miles of Saddleworth Moor, and some 150 people have been affected, as 50 homes have been evacuated.

The fire was originally brought under control, but on Monday, the flames were reignited due to the dry vegetation and high winds.

Firefighters continue to battle the blaze, as 29 fire engines and more than 100 firefighters attempt to take back control.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s assistant chief fire officer, Dave Keelan, said: “We have been liaising with a military adviser on the scene and following those discussions we have requested military assistance from the Ministry of Defence and those discussions are ongoing.”

The Met Office have warned that the temperature is still rising. Neighbouring fire and rescue services are also helping.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in