Dunwich Heat beach. Photo: Shutterstock Emergency services continue to battle a significant wildfire at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk, with police urging residents to stay away.
The fire has prompted a coordinated response from Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and Suffolk Police. Authorities have warned that smoke from the wildfire may affect nearby communities.
In an update shared today, July 30, 2026, on social media, Suffolk Police said they are continuing to support firefighters at the scene and reiterated calls for the public to stay away from Dunwich Beach and surrounding areas.
"Local residents are advised to follow advice from Suffolk Fire to keep all doors and windows closed."
The Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service issued the following message: "Due to the ongoing nature and seriousness of the fire at Dunwich Heath, we are strongly urging the public to avoid visiting Dunwich Beach and the surrounding areas.
We understand that the warm weather makes a trip to the coast very appealing, but for everyone's safety we are asking people to stay away from the area at this time.
It is essential that the area and surrounding roads are kept clear to allow emergency services to carry out their work safely and effectively, and to help protect members of the public."
The fire department also advised the public to dipose of cigarettes and matches in a safe manner and never throw them from their vehicles, avoid parking on dry grass, "as hot exhausts can quickly ignite vegetation", not use disposable barbecues unless they are allowed in a designated area, and make sure they are fully extinguished after use, and not light fires in the countryside or other unsuitable locations.
"A few simple precautions can make a huge difference in protecting Suffolk's countryside, communities and wildlife," the department added.
Incident commander Christopher May issued the following update: "Once again, members of the public are advised to avoid the area and keep roads clear to allow our teams to carry out their work safely."
Dunwich Heath, a popular National Trust nature reserve on the Suffolk coast, is known for its heathland habitat and attracts visitors throughout the year. Wildfires can spread rapidly across dry heathland, particularly during periods of warm and windy weather.