Fire crews are at the scene of a large blaze near Redruth this morning (Wednesday, August 12), with residents told to keep their doors and windows closed. The fire broke out on Carn Marth, and pictures from the scene show large plumes of smoke rising into the sky.
The incident comes as an amber heat health alert remains in place for the South West until Friday, August 14, at 9pm, with the UK experiencing its fifth heatwave of the year. In Cornwall, temperatures are expected to peak at 31C today in Bude, before dropping to 27C on Thursday and 22C on Friday.
The region has seen several wildfires in recent days, including a large one in Mawgan Porth yesterday.
Cornwall Council said: "Cornwall is at increased risk of wildfires due to the warm, dry conditions. Please help prevent fires by avoiding BBQs and campfires in the open countryside, taking all rubbish home and disposing of cigarettes safely. Never throw cigarette ends from a vehicle. If you see a fire, move to a safe place and call 999."
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: "Nearly 60 calls have so far been received reporting a wildfire in Carnmarth near Lanner following an initial report at 7:10am this morning. Four appliances and a whole time officer are in attendance. Smoke is visible in the vicinity of the area including Lanner and Redruth. If travelling through the area, please take care."
At 11:49pm last night (August 11), the fire service said it attended another "large fire" in Advent, Camelford. It said at the time: "Pumping appliances from Delabole, Bodmin, and Padstow, along with the water carrier from Wadebridge, are in attendance at a large fire in the open. Firefighters are working to extinguish the fire."
Cornwall Council added: "Firefighters are responding to a wildfire at Carn Marth, near Lanner. Smoke is visible around Lanner and Redruth. If you're travelling through the area, please take care. If you live nearby, keep your windows and doors closed."
Redruth Town Council said: "We are aware of a fire on Carn Marth. The fire services are currently at the scene. If you are in the local area please keep your windows and doors closed."
Source: Cornwall Live — Read the original article
More wildfires break out as Cornwall hit with fifth heatwave