Wildfires continue to devastate parts of the UK, with firefighters under "extreme pressure" due to a prolonged heatwave, as reported by Phil Garrigan, chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), on July 14, 2026. The dry conditions have led to approximately 19 active fires across the country, prompting major incidents in Conwy, north Wales, and Glossop, Derbyshire.
Major Incidents Declared in Wales and Derbyshire
On Sunday, significant wildfires erupted in Conwy and Derbyshire, with firefighters still battling the flames by Tuesday. In Conwy, the major wildfire has been brought under control, according to North Wales Fire and Rescue Service's assistant chief fire officer, Justin Evans. However, active blazes still threaten areas such as Braichmelyn forestry near Bethesda and the Rhinogydd mountain range near Harlech.
Farmer Gareth Wyn Jones, whose land is adjacent to Conwy Mountain, described the fire as unprecedented, stating, "I have never seen anything of that scale. It was unreal." Thankfully, while ponies grazing on the mountain survived, there were concerns for a neighbor's pigs due to smoke inhalation.
Ongoing Challenges from Wildfires in the Peak District
In the Peak District, firefighters are still addressing a major moorland fire at Tintwistle Moor, which began on June 24 and has consumed approximately 260 hectares (642 acres) of land. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's senior fire chief, Ben Levy, warned that crews face a "very challenging and gruelling day ahead" as the heat and dry conditions continue to exacerbate the situation.
