Overview
- The Dovestone fire began on Saturday, July 11, and the Tintwistle blaze first ignited on June 24, with both declared major incidents and burning for multiple days.
- Fire services say they have made progress but the incidents remain active with around 70–80 firefighters, multiple engines, specialist wildfire units, drones and aerial water‑bombing working to contain hotspots.
- Greater Manchester Police have charged 20‑year‑old Shania Care‑Slede with aggravated arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and dangerous driving; detectives are reviewing video footage and pursuing other lines of enquiry.
- Smoke has pushed air quality into the 'unhealthy' range across most boroughs, with Stockport recording AQI readings near 195, and health officials have advised people to stay indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
- Local communities report coughing, hospital treatment for children and increased inhaler use, while authorities warn peat and moor vegetation can smoulder and re‑ignite, prolonging operations and keeping road closures and access restrictions in place.