Update on major Peak District wildfire that engulfed moorland and forced police to close A57 Snake Pass
Fire crews from across the country were tasked with tackling a major wildfire that broke out in the Peak District over the weekend.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to tackle a wildfire that had broken out at Snake Pass Summit, just before 9.00pm on Thursday, April 30.
At its height, firefighters from Derbyshire, Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire were all deployed to the scene of the blaze.
They worked alongside partners from the Peak District Fire Operations Group, including local gamekeepers and landowners, and Derby Mountain Rescue Team.
Nine fire engines were in attendance on Friday, May 1 – supported by two wildfire units, a rural unimog, welfare unit, command support unit, fuel bowser, two water carriers and a helicopter. At that point, the fire had engulfed an area of moorland that was 1,200 metres by 600 metres.
Derbyshire Police were also forced to close the Snake Pass between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir while the wildfire was brought under control. Members of the public were advised to avoid the area, after a significant smoke plume caused poor visibility on roads in the surrounding area.
At 11.30am on Saturday, May 2, firefighters returned to the scene of the wildfire. Following a planned inspection at 6.00am to assess conditions, crews from Glossop and Buxton were mobilised after large amounts of smoke were seen.
Additional crews from Bakewell and Matlock were also in attendance. Supported by two argocat all-terrain vehicles, a rural unimog, and a water carrier, firefighters worked to tackle hotspots and stop the fire from spreading.