People are being urged to ‘avoid the area’ next to the M62 with major road closures still in placePictures show the horrifying aftermath of a huge moor fire that tore through Rishworth moor on Thursday evening(Image: West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service)

Pictures show the devastating aftermath of a huge moor fire that broke out near the M62 on Thursday afternoon.

Fire crews were called to Rishworth moor near Oldham Road, Ripponden, at around 12:15pm on Thursday (May 1). The blaze continued to tear through the moorland throughout the evening, with 18 fire crews tackling the flames at its peak.

Terrifying footage showed huge plumes of smoke billowing over the nearby M62 as the flames raged, with people urged to ‘avoid the area’ and major roads nearby closed.

Huge plumes of smoke and flames were visible from the nearby M62(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

Fire crews continued to monitor the scene overnight. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) confirmed seven units remain at the moor to fight the blaze on Friday morning (May 2).

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Pictures shared with the M.E.N. show the terrifying impact of the fire on the moor. Huge blackened patches of grass can be seen, with some smoke still visible near the top of the hill.

WYFRS are continuing to urge people to avoid the area, with Oldham Road remaining closed.

In a statement, they said: “Seven crews and supporting units remain at the scene this morning after continuing to monitor and tackle the fire overnight. Crews and partner agencies will continue their work this morning.

“Please continue to avoid the area. Further updates will follow.”

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