A wildfire burning in Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, is spreading across a large area and is affecting sensitive wildlife habitat, including the RSPB Minsmere area, according to reports. The blaze has expanded to between roughly 140 and 210 football pitches, with figures varying between outlets as the fire develops. Authorities have ordered evacuations in parts of the affected area, though details of the exact locations are not consistent across the available reporting.
EDF nuclear plant staff are monitoring the situation as the fire approaches or comes within proximity of nuclear facilities, with one outlet describing internal monitoring as “unprecedented.” No confirmed nuclear incident is reported in the available summaries, and the focus is on monitoring and preparedness.
The fire is reported to have destroyed rare bird habitat associated with Minsmere, an RSPB reserve near Dunwich Heath. Emergency services and nuclear plant personnel continue to respond as the fire spreads and conditions change.
