Smoke from moors drifts over borough as services battle blazes
Firefighters are tackling significant moorland blazes on the hills above Oldham and Glossop, with both Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service declaring major incidents. Plumes from the fires are spreading across parts of Greater Manchester, and Stockport is among the areas seeing notably poorer air, according to live readings cited by air quality analysts IQAir. The governments environment department Defra has also flagged the potential for localised pollution episodes that may not show up on standard weather maps.
Crews remain on the moors at Dovestone Reservoir near Oldham after a blaze broke out on Saturday evening. A second wildfire on the high ground above Glossop, which first ignited on 24 June, has intensified in the current heat and strong winds. Firefighters are working with partner agencies, including specialist wildfire teams, local mountain rescue and United Utilities, to contain the spread and safeguard nearby communities.
Health advice for residents in smoky areas
Wildfire smoke carries fine particles and gases that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. While most healthy people may only notice short-lived symptoms, exposure can be more serious for babies and young children, older people, those who are pregnant, and anyone with heart or lung conditions such as asthma, COPD or heart disease.
With haze and odour reported in parts of the borough, Stockport Council has shared practical steps for anyone affected by smoke:
- Limit time outdoors if you can smell smoke or visibility is reduced.
- Avoid strenuous activity outside, including running, heavy gardening or sports.
- Keep windows and doors closed while smoke levels remain high.
- Stay indoors during the smokiest periods if temperatures allow.
- In vehicles, close windows and use the recirculation setting if available.
Residents are also urged to look in on relatives, neighbours and friends who might be more vulnerable, especially those living alone or with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Where the fires are and what we know
| Location | Current status | First reported |
|---|---|---|
| Dovestone Reservoir, Oldham | Ongoing multi-agency response with specialist wildfire units | Saturday evening |
| Tintwhistle moors near Glossop (Derbyshire) | Fire worsened by heat and winds; control operations continuing | 24 June |
Local impact across Stockport
On clear days, many of us look towards the Dark Peak and Saddleworth Moor from our gardens or while commuting along the A6 and M60. In this warm, dry spell, smoke has been travelling across those familiar skylines into South Manchester and Stockport, occasionally reducing visibility and leaving a noticeable smell. Air quality monitors referenced by IQAir indicate these areas have, at times, been among the hardest hit in Greater Manchester.
Conditions can shift quickly with the wind, meaning air quality may fluctuate from one neighbourhood to the next through the day. People who need to be outdoors for work or caring duties should take sensible precautions, carry any prescribed inhalers, and move indoors if they start to feel unwell. If symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness or prolonged coughing occur, seek appropriate medical advice.
How the response is being managed
Major incident status enables services to coordinate resources at scale. On the hills, firefighters are creating breaks to slow the flames, supported by teams trained in wildfire tactics. The rugged terrain and dry peat make these fires unpredictable; even a small spark can quickly escalate in current conditions, so continued public vigilance is essential.
Residents are reminded not to travel onto affected moorland, to keep well clear of operational areas, and to report any signs of new fire activity through the usual emergency channels. Discarded cigarettes, disposable barbecues and campfires all carry heightened risk on parched ground.
Staying informed
Updates on the incident are being issued by the fire and rescue services and Stockport Council as the situation develops. Keep an eye on official channels for the latest guidance, especially if smoke concentrations rise again over the borough. For now, the key message is simple: take the precautions above, look out for vulnerable neighbours, and avoid adding to the load on crews working long hours on exposed ground.
