More than 100 firefighters are continuing to battle a significant wildfire on Suffolk's coast, which has expanded to cover an area equivalent to 210 football pitches. The blaze, which ignited on Dunwich Heath near Leiston on Wednesday afternoon, has been burning for over 24 hours and is described by the county's fire service as "still growing and unpredictable."

The unprecedented heathland fire was declared a major incident on Thursday morning due to its scale and complexity, exacerbated by south-westerly winds. Suffolk's chief fire officer, Jon Lacey, stated on Thursday evening that 18 fire engines and 120 firefighters were involved, but difficult terrain and limited access routes are hindering efforts to reach all areas of the wildfire.

Approximately 100 to 150 people have been evacuated from their homes and a holiday caravan park. A rest centre has been established to support those displaced, with around 50 people having received assistance. The fire service anticipates its response will continue for at least another 48 hours, with changing wind conditions making it challenging to forecast the fire's spread.

Fears are mounting for the rare birds and wildlife that inhabit Dunwich Heath and the nearby RSPB Minsmere nature reserve. Species such as Dartford warblers, nightjars, and stonechats, as well as reptiles like adders and common lizards, call the protected area home.

In response to the escalating situation, the fire service has requested additional national support, including specialized wildfire appliances, officers, and tactical advisers. Fire crews from neighbouring brigades, including London, are assisting, with engines also being deployed. A helicopter has been seen collecting water from the sea to aid in suppression efforts.

The Sizewell B nuclear power station, located approximately three miles from the fire, confirmed it is monitoring the situation but stated that operations are not being affected. Fields separate the power plant from the blaze, which is concentrated further north along the coast. Sizewell C, currently under construction, has offered accommodation at its Pakefield block for displaced residents.

UK Power Networks temporarily cut electricity to 116 homes in the Darsham area at the fire service's request, due to the fire's proximity to overhead power lines. The Prime Minister has pledged full support to the fire service, while the Communities Secretary commended the firefighters' dedication and bravery.

Dunwich Heath is a site of special scientific interest owned by the National Trust. The ongoing unpredictable nature of the fire and the challenging environmental conditions present significant hurdles for the emergency services as they work to contain and extinguish the blaze.