Major Wildfires Declared in Dorset Heaths

A major incident has been declared in Dorset following a large wildfire at Holt Heath near Wimborne, leading to the evacuation of 20 homes and the closure of several roads. Around 100 firefighters from Dorset, Wiltshire, and neighboring counties are battling the rapidly spreading blaze, which has been worsened by strong winds and covers approximately 1,000 by 800 meters. Residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed due to thick smoke, and the public is urged to avoid the area and not to fly drones, which could hinder emergency operations. Officials warn that it could take several days to fully extinguish the fire and may require additional resources. Simultaneously, crews are also fighting another significant fire at Newton Heath, believed to be deliberately started, burning since last Sunday and affecting an area equivalent to 35 football pitches. Investigations into the causes of both fires are ongoing.