Overview
- Suffolk Fire and Rescue declared a major incident after a large, wind‑driven wildfire broke out at Dunwich Heath, with crews mobilised shortly after 5:30pm on Wednesday and working through the night.
- About 70–100 firefighters and 14 engines, supported by specialist vehicles, drones and quad bikes, remain on scene as commanders say containment is uncertain and further flare‑ups are possible.
- Hundreds of people were evacuated overnight from nearby caravan and holiday sites, with evacuees directed to Westleton Village Hall and firefighters prioritising protection of Coastguard Cottages, Mount Pleasant Farm and Cliff House Holiday Park.
- RSPB Minsmere has closed as a precaution, there are no reported injuries, the cause of the fire is unclear, and authorities state Sizewell B is not currently at risk.
- The blaze comes during a period of very hot, dry weather and an amber UKHSA heat‑health alert, a combination that has raised regional wildfire risk and increased concern for sensitive lowland heath habitats and wildlife.