RESIDENTS across Worcester, Malvern and surrounding areas have woken up to the smell of smoke and hazy skies following a series of major wildfires across Worcestershire.
Many people took to social media early this morning to report a strong smell of burning, with some describing visible smoke clouds hanging over parts of the county.
It comes after Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands, in particular Birmingham, were affected by multiple wildfires yesterday (Thursday) evening.
For live updates on the wildfire situation in Worcestershire, click here.
People living in Worcester, Malvern and neighbouring communities may continue to notice smoke in the air as firefighters deal with remaining hotspots and smouldering ground.
Residents have previously been advised to keep windows and doors closed if smoke is affecting their area.
What should I do if I smell smoke?
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service has only urged people who can see a fire to call 999 after being inundated with calls.
A spokesperson said: “We are currently taking numerous calls reporting sightings or the smell of smoke.
READ MORE: Latest on Worcestershire wildfires forced home evacuations
“The wind is changing direction and therefore smoke is drifting.
Smoke rising from a fire in the Stourbridge area. (Image: Jacob King)
“We respectfully ask at this extremely busy time that you only call if you can see fire.
“If smoke is affecting you, please close windows and doors.
“Thank you for your assistance.”
Fire crews under significant pressure
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service has been under significant pressure as crews respond to multiple incidents across the county.
Worcester News has contacted Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service this morning (Friday), which has told us it is currently too busy to provide the latest update on the wildfire situation in Worcestershire.
FIRE: Many people took to social media early this morning to report a strong smell of burning. (Image: Matthew Cooper/PA Wire)
Alongside Pershore, firefighters have also attended a blaze near railway tracks in Lower Howsell, Malvern, while large fires have also been reported elsewhere across the Midlands
Firefighters have tackled a major blaze in Pershore which led to the evacuation of around 30 properties and the creation of a relief centre at Pershore Leisure Centre.
This has since been put out.
A number of homes were damaged in the Pershore fire, which broke out at Lancelott Court off Three Springs Road, as emergency services worked through extremely hot and dry conditions.
