Langdale Moor fire major incident confirmed

A moorland blaze on Langdale Moor near RAF Fylingdales has grown to about 5 square kilometres, triggering a major incident response.

Langdale Moor Fire Declared Major Incident

A major incident has been declared after a moorland fire started on Langdale Moor in the North York Moors National Park on Monday and continues to spread. The North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service says the blaze now covers around 5 square kilometres. About 100 firefighters and 20 appliances are at the scene, with more resources being sent to the area. Residents nearby have been told to keep doors and windows shut and to avoid the area if possible. Dark smoke can be seen billowing over the moors as the fire persists.

The fire has jumped a fire break and winds could push it further. The cause remains unknown. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway has suspended steam services and switched to diesel locomotives, delaying Tornado services planned for Friday to Sunday. Officials say the dry weather and the remote location make firefighting difficult, especially with peat soil burning beneath the surface. The blaze is near the ballistic missile early warning base at RAF Fylingdales, adding sensitivity to the incident.

The incident exposes the clash between nature and infrastructure in a drought-prone landscape. Moorland peat fires burn underground and can reignite, which makes containment slow even when visible flames ease. Remote terrain tests the readiness and coordination of fire crews, transport operators, and local authorities at a time when resources are stretched by other emergencies. It also underscores how climate conditions shape risk profiles for public safety and environmental damage.

In the longer term, the episode raises questions about land management, fire prevention in sensitive landscapes, and how to balance heritage tourism with safety in times of elevated fire risk. It could influence local budgeting, planning for rapid response, and communications with communities and visitors alike.

Highlights

The region watches and measures the fire by the hour as the weather shifts.