Fires have broken out across the West Midlands as a major incident has been declared in the region.
A fire described being “like a horror movie” has broken out in Stourbridge.
Also, a “large fire” has broken out in Salford Priors in Stratford-upon-Avon, with residents urged to close all doors and windows.
In Stoke, a fire has broken out with plumes of black smoke coming from the Sandyford area.
West Midlands Fire Service said it was facing “extreme levels of demand” due to a fire in the Stourbridge area.
An evacuation mission has been launched as people are urged to leave their homes, as an “extensive” fire continues in the area.
Two casualties have been reported so far, the fire service has said.
It is understood the blaze began as a grass fire, following the intensely hot weather today.
Around 60 firefights are at the scene near Stourbridge golf course, after being alerted of a blaze at 1.30pm.
In Stoke, a fire is blazing through the Goldenhill and Sandyford area, with homes nearby being evacuated.
Stoke-on-Trent North’s MP, David Williams, has said “further evacuations may be needed” as the inferno continues.
He urged people to avoid the area unless “absolutely necessary”.
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In Warwickshire, fire and rescue teams were called to reports of a blaze around 2.30pm.
Large plumes of smoke on Tothall Lane, Salford Priors in Stratford-on-Avon can be seen, which has been described a “wildfire”.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “On arrival crews discovered a wildfire which was spreading to nearby out-buildings.
“There are currently 10 appliances in attendance. This incident has been declared a major incident.
“We would like to express that there is a large emergency presence in the area and we continue to advise residents nearby to close all doors and windows.
“Please stay away from the area. Our control room is receiving a large number of calls, so please contact us only in a genuine emergency.
“It’s imperative that residents take all steps to reduce any fire risk. Please read advice on our social media channels about fire and water safety.
“West Midlands Ambulance Service and Warwickshire Police are also on scene.”
The M6 northbound near Birmingham has been shut between junctions 5 and 6 due to smoke from nearby wildfires, with delays reaching up to two hours.
National Highways West Midlands said: “Thick smoke is blowing across the carriageway; closures have been implemented for safety reasons.”
The agency added: “Southbound carriageway remains open at this time, however reduced speeds are in place.”
In a further update, National Highways said: “The fire keeps igniting. Fire commander at the scene not happy for M6 to reopened until fire fully extinguished.
“Delays building, 120 mins and 5 miles of congestion.”
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