A heavy smoke scent fills the air as sirens wail from approaching fire trucks and helicopters circle above. The scene in Dunwich, rural Suffolk, resembles a scene from a disaster movie, but for locals and visitors, it is a harsh reality. Over 120 firefighters across 18 engines are currently battling a 100-hectare blaze in the area.
Amidst the chaos, around 47 individuals, including infants, along with five dogs, a cat, and a mouse, were evacuated from lodges and caravans at Cliff House holiday park near Dunwich Heath. The evacuation took place after the fire broke out around 5 pm on Wednesday. They were swiftly relocated to a temporary rescue center at Westleton Village Hall, where compassionate locals provided them with food, water, and shelter in spare rooms.
One of the evacuees, a mother-of-two from Southampton, shared her harrowing experience of evacuating their static caravan with her young sons in their pajamas, forgetting their shoes in the rush. The sight of smoke during dinner quickly escalated, forcing them to flee into the thick smoke outside.
Another evacuee, midwife Jude Bayly from north London, described the chaotic packing and the fear of the approaching flames as she slept in her car after leaving her caravan behind. The tense situation was further highlighted by Rob Gordon from Spalding, Lincolnshire, who, along with his wife and dog, had to evacuate while witnessing the smoke turning bright red in the evening sun.
At Westleton Village Hall, volunteers took care of the evacuees, including Barry Banks, a long-term village resident, who ensured that all displaced individuals were accommodated. The blaze has already affected a significant portion of the RSPB Minsmere reserve, but authorities downplayed concerns about the nearby Sizewell B nuclear power station being at risk.
Despite ongoing efforts to contain the fire, officials anticipate the operation to continue for another 24 to 36 hours. Residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed and remain prepared for potential further evacuations. Suffolk Fire Service Chief Fire Officer Jon Lacey acknowledged the challenging nature of the incident, emphasizing the need for continuous resources and community support to address the situation effectively.