Fire crews battle wildfire near UK nuclear power sites

Key facts

• A large wildfire is burning near Sizewell B and Sizewell C nuclear power sites in Suffolk, UK.
• The fire covers approximately 100 hectares and is being fought by 18 fire engines.
• Energy company EDF stated the fire is not currently impacting Sizewell B operations.
• Sizewell C noted the fire poses a low risk due to its distance and intervening watercourses.
• Some local residents have been evacuated from their homes.
• The UK government has offered support to those affected and to the emergency services.

Fire crews are battling a significant wildfire near three major nuclear power sites in Suffolk, on the UK's east coast. The blaze, which began on Wednesday on Dunwich Heath, has spread southwest and currently covers approximately 100 hectares.

An EDF spokesperson confirmed that the fire is not currently affecting operations at the Sizewell B nuclear power station, though the company is continuing to monitor the situation. They stated the site is not on high alert, as it has a well-rehearsed emergency plan.

The planned Sizewell C nuclear station also confirmed it is closely monitoring the fire, assessing it as a low risk due to its distance and the presence of watercourses between the fire and the site. Their sites and offices remain open and operating normally, with continuous assessment of smoke conditions and road network impacts.

Residents and visitors have been advised to avoid the area, and some locals have been evacuated to a rest centre. Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has deployed 18 fire engines, along with specialist equipment including drones and 4x4 quad bikes, to combat the flames under challenging conditions. Suffolk Police are also providing support.

Angela Rayner, the UK Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, thanked the firefighters and stated the government is ready to offer support.