Leeming fire: drivers on A1 warned over billowing smoke from blaze next to RAF base
Drivers on the A1 have been warned over billowing smoke from a major fire at a farm building in Leeming, North Yorkshire.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has asked people to avoid the area, as footage shows putried black smoke streaming into the sky.
Five fire trucks, from Bedale, Northallerton, Richmond, Thirsk and Ripon, and a water bowser are at the scene, which is a farm next to RAF Leeming.
The base, which is primarily home to the Hawk Mk 167 and Grob Tutor T1, is not affected, and it is thought an agricultural building has caught fire. Some locals have speculated it could be tyres of manure that is ablaze.
The smoke is so bad that crews are using breathing apparatus alongside hose reel jets to try and extinguish the flames.
The fire and rescue service said: “We have received reports that smoke is blowing over the A1, please try avoid the area if possible.”
It added: “The fire is producing lots of black smoke, please keep windows and doors closed.”
The fire comes after North Yorkshire Council issued an warning over wildfires amid the sweltering temperatures.
The largest fire in the country last year was on Langdale Moor, in the North York Moors, and took six weeks to put out.
This summer is set to break various temperature records, including most days above 25C.
North Yorkshire Council launched its Don't Spark Disaster campaign in the North York Moors, informing the public that simple actions, such as disposing of cigarettes properly and not cooking on an open flame, can help to prevent wildfires.
Council leader Coun Carl Les said: “This campaign is vital to making sure that we do not see a repeat of the biggest wildfire we have ever witnessed in North Yorkshire.
“Our message is clear – please come and enjoy all that North Yorkshire has to offer but be aware that careless actions can cause a catastrophic impact on our communities and the natural environment.”