Firefighters make progress as Dunwich Heath wildfire reaches 150 hectares

Friday, 31 July 2026 06:00

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service image of the huge wildfire late Wednesday evening.

Firefighters say they are making good progress tackling the major wildfire at Dunwich Heath, although changing wind conditions continue to make the blaze difficult to predict.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service says the fire remains dynamic but stable, with crews confident their tactics are working and moving in the right direction.

The area affected by the wildfire has now grown to around 150 hectares. Changing wind directions had influenced where the flames would go and behaviour of the fire, making it difficult to predict how it may spread.

Six appliances from London Fire Brigade are joining the firefighting operation. Additional national support has also been requested, including specialist wildfire appliances, officers and tactical advisers.

Firefighters are continuing to work with support from neighbouring services across the region.

Around 50 people have received support through the rest centre, which remains open. The emergency response is expected to continue for at least the next 48 hours.

As a precaution, UK Power Networks has reported a power cut affecting three postcodes and 116 customers as part of the wider Major Incident response. The company is investigating the issue and working to restore supplies, but has not yet confirmed when power will be back on.

Residents are being advised to stay informed through official channels and, if it is safe to do so, check on vulnerable neighbours.

The latest power cut information is available from UK Power Networks.