Firefighters battling the major wildfire at Headon Warren are expected to remain at the West Wight beauty spot for another 24 to 72 hours.
The latest update from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service highlights the scale and complexity of the incident, with crews continuing to face difficult conditions due to the remote location, challenging terrain and the fire’s proximity to the cliff edge.
The wildfire – feared to have been started by an unattended campfire – broke out at Headon Warren this morning (Thursday), prompting a major emergency response.
Fire engines from across the Isle of Wight were mobilised, with support later drafted in from the mainland as the fire spread rapidly across the protected heathland.
At the height of the blaze, HIWFRS declared the incident Make Pumps 14, with 4 water carriers and a number of command vehicles. It is by far the largest incident, in terms of mobilisation, in recent years.
Firefighters are expected to work through the night tonight, and into tomorrow morning – potentially staying on scene for the next 3 days.
Water is now being pulled from the sea, with hoses being run a considerable distance to keep water flowing for firefighting efforts.
The National Trust has praised firefighters for their ‘tireless efforts’ to protect Headon Warren – one of the Isle of Wight’s most important areas of rare chalk grassland and heath – while also thanking the public for staying away from the site.
HIWFRS Wildfire Tactical Advisor, Larry Mackrell, has tonight said:
“We are dealing with a large fire in the West Wight, which is made even more difficult by the challenging terrain, its remote location and proximity to the cliff edge.
“We are working closely with our fellow emergency services and the local council, as well as Forestry England, the National Trust, Southern Water and ferry companies, to ensure we can continue tackling this fire effectively and maintain cover across the island.
“I would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding, and I ask that they continue to avoid the area around Headon Warren, allowing our fire engines access to the affected site, as quickly as possible.
“It is important that I recognise our firefighters who are working hard in incredibly tough conditions, as well as the valued support provided by our wider teams to maintain an effective operational response.
“We expect to have a presence here for the next 24 to 72 hours so please keep an eye on our social media channels and website updates to stay informed of the latest developments.”
The fire service says it is continuing to work closely with Isle of Wight Council, Forestry England, the National Trust, Southern Water, ferry companies and fellow emergency services to ensure the operation can continue while maintaining fire cover across the Isle of Wight.
Residents and visitors are once again being urged to avoid the Headon Warren area to allow emergency vehicles unrestricted access to the site as firefighters continue what is expected to be a prolonged operation.
