Wartime bombs explode as fire rips across Yorkshire moorland
People urged to prepare ‘grab bags’ as Yorkshire wildfire spreads
- Undiscovered Second World War bombs and tank shells are exploding on Langdale Moor in the North York Moors as fires spread across the area.
- Fire crews have been battling the extensive blaze, which now covers 2,000 acres, for over two weeks.
- At least 18 blasts have occurred as peat burnt down to hidden ordnance, forcing firefighters into a defensive strategy.
- North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has warned nearby residents to prepare "grab bags" for potential short-notice evacuation due to the risk of fire spreading and smoke.
- The fire, which has closed roads and a campsite, doubled in size within 24 hours due to changing winds and rising temperatures, posing significant challenges for emergency services.