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Firefighters Thanked After Major Heatwave Response

Friday, 21 August 2026 10:22

Norfolk firefighters are being thanked after tackling multiple fires during extreme heat, with August potentially becoming their busiest month ever.

Norfolk firefighters are being thanked for their efforts during one of the most demanding periods the county’s fire and rescue service has faced.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident on Thursday 13 August as crews dealt with numerous emergencies at the same time during extreme heat and exceptionally dry conditions.

The declaration was made at around 3.15pm as the number of incidents requiring multiple fire engines placed significant pressure on available resources.

Among the fires being tackled were a major blaze at Mousehold Heath in Norwich, a fire at Thomas Bullock Primary Academy in Shipdham and incidents in areas including Kelling, Watton and Wymondham.

At one stage, crews were dealing with 16 emergencies across the county.

The major incident was stood down at around 8.15pm once the service said its resources had returned to a more stable position.

Firefighters have continued to deal with wildfires and outdoor fires throughout the exceptionally hot and dry summer.

The service says August could become its busiest on record if the high level of incidents continues.

Crews and control-room staff are being thanked for maintaining emergency cover while responding to multiple large and demanding incidents across Norfolk.

 

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