Urgent warning issued as six wildfires hit Greater Manchester in 2026

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has issued an urgent warning after six wildfires have already erupted across the region this year, following a sharp rise in incidents in 2025. The alert comes after eight moorland fires broke out in just 24 hours earlier this month across Greater Manchester, Derbyshire, and West Yorkshire, forcing major road closures and evacuations.

On April 7, two blazes tore through Saddleworth Moors near the Pots and Pans monument in Uppermill and Holmfirth Road in Greenfield, scorching large areas and closing roads between Oldham and Huddersfield. The following evening, firefighters returned to the moors to tackle two further fires near Dovestone Reservoir, requiring area evacuations. In April 2025, crews spent five hours battling a blaze near the reservoir that covered an area larger than a football pitch.

Official data shows 83 wildfires have been recorded across Greater Manchester since 2021, with 38 incidents in 2025 alone. “Recent incidents have also highlighted the challenges faced by firefighters tackling wildfires,” a GMFRS spokesperson said. “Crews have responded to multiple large-scale moorland fires in difficult terrain, often working for extended periods in remote locations and changing conditions to bring incidents under control and prevent further escalation.”

The warning, part of the annual Be Moor Aware campaign, urges the public to avoid barbecues, fires, or fireworks on the moors and to dispose of rubbish properly. Head of Service Delivery Ben Levy said: “Wildfires present significant operational challenges for our crews, often requiring long hours in remote locations and rapidly changing conditions. During recent incidents, firefighters have worked tirelessly alongside partner agencies to bring fires under control and protect surrounding communities, wildlife and infrastructure. These incidents highlight the importance of our specialist wildfire capability, including off-road vehicles and equipment that allow us to access difficult terrain safely. However, prevention remains our most effective tool, and we’re asking the public to help reduce the risk by acting responsibly when visiting moorland areas.” Wildfire Lead Adrian Taylor added: “Wildfires can spread rapidly, especially during warm and dry weather, putting lives, wildlife and property at risk. Many of these fires are preventable, and we’re asking everyone to take responsibility when visiting our moorland areas. Small actions, such as not using disposable barbecues and taking litter home, can make a huge difference in preventing devastating fires.”

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