Emergency crews remain deployed on the Peak District moorland above Glossop more than a month after smoke was first reported. The blaze, which began on 24 June, has become one of the largest recent fires recorded in the area and continues to smoulder across a wide area of upland heather and grass.
Scale and comparisons
Analysis by the European Forest Fire Information System (Effis), cited by BBC Verify, estimates the total area affected at about 606 hectares — roughly 1,630 acres or the equivalent of around 900 football pitches. That footprint is larger than the nearby town of Hadfield, which has a population in the region of 6,700.
| Site | Estimated area burned |
|---|---|
| Tintwistle Moor | 606 hectares (~1,630 acres) |
| Dovestone Reservoir (nearby) | 90 hectares (~220 acres) |
Expert view and firefighting effort
Dr Kirsten Lees, a lecturer in environmental sciences at the University of Derby who specialises in zero carbon research, has been monitoring the incident using satellite imagery. She told the BBC the blaze in Tintwistle is comparable to some of the biggest wildfires seen in England and expressed concern about its scale.
"Honestly, it's upsetting and it's really scary. My estimate is that it is about the size of a small town."
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and volunteer teams, including members of the Derby Mountain Rescue Team, have maintained a continuous presence on the moorland. Dozens of firefighters have been engaged in containment and monitoring for several weeks as crews work to prevent further spread.
Local impact and practical information
The continuing incident has significance for local residents and visitors to the Peak District. Visible smoke and ash can affect air quality and visibility. People in affected areas should follow guidance from emergency services and avoid the immediate vicinity of the fire to allow crews to work safely.
- Follow updates from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service for road closures or access restrictions.
- Avoid non-essential travel near the moor to reduce risk and allow emergency vehicles access.
- Keep windows and doors closed if you are affected by smoke and seek medical advice if you experience breathing difficulties.
While firefighters have prevented the blaze from growing uncontrollably, satellite data indicate the event remains significant in scale. Dr Lees noted the Peak District fire would need to expand further to surpass the size of other historic upland wildfires in England, such as Saddleworth and Fylingdales.
The situation remains fluid. Authorities continue to monitor the area and conduct suppression activity where conditions allow. Local people are asked to heed instructions from official channels and to report any new signs of fire promptly.
