Apocalyptic Blaze Engulfs Upton Heath
A massive wildfire ripped through Upton Heath nature reserve near Poole overnight, with dramatic flames and thick smoke filling the sky following an exceptionally dry and sunny March.
Emergency services rushed to the scene just before midnight as the blaze tore through more than 37 acres of land, coming dangerously close to the A35 Upton Bypass. The fire prompted road closures and a major response from local fire crews.
Fire Warning Came Days Earlier
The fire broke out after the Met Office issued alerts over increased wildfire risk due to soaring temperatures and prolonged dry conditions across southern England. Bournemouth and Poole have experienced an extended dry spell and above-average heat for this time of year.
The sight of the inferno prompted comparisons to scenes from Los Angeles, where similar wildfires in January destroyed thousands of homes and killed dozens of people.
Not the First Blaze This Week
This is the latest in a string of wildfires in Dorset. Earlier this week, two separate fires broke out on Monday and Tuesday, forcing Moors Valley Country Park near the Hampshire border to close. Firefighters are continuing to monitor several hotspots and assess the damage caused.
In a statement, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest said: “The park will remain closed while firefighters continue to monitor a number of fires and assess their impact.”
Met Office: Hottest March Since Records Began
The Met Office confirmed that March was the sunniest ever recorded in England since records began in 1910. Large parts of the country saw temperatures soar, with fire services warning of the potential for wildfires in dry grassland and heathland.
No Injuries Reported But Investigation Underway
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported from the Upton Heath fire. An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the blaze. Authorities are urging the public to take extreme care and avoid lighting fires or barbecues in the countryside.
A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The dry conditions mean even small sparks can lead to significant fires. We ask everyone to be vigilant and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.”
