Firefighting operations at Holme Fen continue to secure area
Utilising thermal imaging cameras on drones, authorities have identified significant areas of heat beneath the ground
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service remains engaged in firefighting efforts at Holme Fen, as work progresses to contain the fire and address underground hotspots.
Utilising thermal imaging cameras on drones, authorities have identified significant areas of heat beneath the ground.
While some surface smoke remains visible, it has diminished considerably over the past week.
Crews have successfully surrounded the fire, establishing containment using high-volume pumps and irrigation hoses provided by local farmers.
Efforts are especially focused on preventing fire spread towards nearby train lines.
The full police statement reads:
"Work is continuing to progress steadily at Holme Fen.
"The thermal imaging camera on the drone shows a vast area of hot spots underground. Some areas still have visible smoke on the surface, but this is low and much less than last week.
"The fire is surrounded and firefighting operations have contained the area...
... using high-volume pumps and irrigation hoses from local farmers to keep a constant water supply on smoking hotspots and to prevent the fire from spreading to other areas, particularly near the train line.
"The affected area is within a perimeter of approximately 4 kilometres and the fire has been burning up to six metres below the surface in parts. Heavy machinery has been brought in and is working to clear the area and remove hazardous burnt trees, as these have been falling and posing a risk to firefighters.
"Work will continue this week to clear the area fully, turn the soil and deal with hotspots. Road closures are likely to remain for the rest of the week as multiple fire engines remain at the scene. Crews and equipment from fire and rescue services across the country continue to support our own firefighters. We have crews at the scene 24 hours still, although due to falling trees and risks underfoot, physical firefighting is taking place in daylight hours only.
"Please continue to stay away from the area until we can make it safe."