Nottinghamshire Fire Services Battle Multiple Major Fires Across Region

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is simultaneously tackling two significant fire incidents across the region: a scrapyard blaze in Basford and an underground woodland fire in Rainworth that continues to burn below the surface. The dual emergency response highlights the intensity of fire activity in the area, with crews deploying specialist equipment and aerial support to manage the blazes.

Basford Scrapyard Fire

Emergency crews responded to a scrapyard fire on Radford Road in Basford, with six fire appliances and an aerial ladder platform deployed to the scene. The incident has generated a substantial smoke plume visible across the area. Authorities issued an immediate advisory asking residents to keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke inhalation. The fire service remains at the location managing the blaze and monitoring air quality in surrounding neighbourhoods.

Rainworth Underground Fire Challenge

Firefighters face a more complex challenge at Strawberry Hill Heath in Rainworth, where a woodland fire is burning beneath the ground surface. The fire service was initially called to the site on Monday afternoon and continued operations into the night. Upon returning Tuesday, crews discovered the fire was still active across approximately 10,000 square metres (108,000 square feet) underground. Station Manager Richard Booth confirmed the fire remains beneath the surface, making it particularly difficult to extinguish.

Specialised wildfire equipment has been deployed to tackle the subsurface blaze. The fire service warned the public to avoid the area entirely while operations continue. Officials noted that these types of fires present unique challenges because flames can penetrate deep into the ground and remain active despite minimal visible flames, with only smoke appearing above the surface.

Weather and Prevention Warnings

Both incidents coincide with elevated temperatures across the country, with forecasters predicting this will be the third heatwave of the year. Fire service officials have urged the public to exercise caution with barbecues, cigarettes, and glass bottles during high-temperature periods. Residents are advised to take rubbish home rather than leaving it in outdoor spaces, reducing potential fire ignition sources during warm weather conditions.