The United Kingdom is facing an 'exceptional' risk of wildfires as a third summer heatwave brings temperatures of up to 33°C. The Natural Hazards Partnership, a coalition of government agencies and researchers, has issued a red alert for extreme wildfire danger across southern England, the Midlands, and parts of northern England.
Recent Wildfires and Response
On Saturday, eight fire engines were deployed to tackle blazes near Glossop in Derbyshire, while firefighters worked through Friday night to contain a wildfire at Devil's Dyke in the South Downs National Park. These incidents follow more than a dozen fire engines attending wildfires in Derbyshire and Sussex earlier. According to Natural England, the risk of further fires remains high as the UK continues to swelter under prolonged heat.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
The Forestry Commission has warned that low humidity and strong gusting winds expected on Sunday increase the likelihood of fires starting and spreading rapidly. Between January 1 and July 6 this year, 342 wildfires have been recorded in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber and yellow heat health alerts, which remain in place until Sunday night.
Met Office Science Manager Dr Amy Doherty said: 'This year has already seen a number of remarkable temperature milestones. Not only have we now recorded a record eight days with temperatures exceeding 34°C, surpassing the previous record held by 1976 and 2020, but it is also the first year in the UK weather record to see temperatures reach 35°C or higher in May, June and July. These records highlight just how notable this year has been for UK temperatures, with exceptional warmth observed across multiple months.'
Risk of Wildfires and Public Advice
Fire chiefs have urged the public to exercise caution. A National Fire Chiefs Council spokesperson said: 'When the weather stays hot and dry, it only takes one spark to start a wildfire. What can begin as a small fire can spread incredibly quickly, putting people, homes, wildlife and our countryside at risk. We're asking everyone to take extra care outdoors, whether that's avoiding disposable barbecues in the countryside, parks or moorlands, or making sure cigarettes are fully extinguished. A few simple actions can make a huge difference and help prevent fires before they start.'
London faces an 'extreme' wildfire risk this weekend. Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall of the London Fire Brigade said: 'We want everyone across the city to enjoy the continuing heatwave but this must be done responsibly. The latest wildfire risk assessment indicates that if grassfires were to break out, the chance of them spreading more rapidly due to the weather conditions is greater. With so many of London's parks and open spaces close to properties and communities, it is vital the public take as much care as possible to prevent these fires starting in the first place. That means no disposable barbecues in parks and open spaces, taking rubbish home with you if no bins are available and ensuring your cigarettes are discarded properly. If you're having a barbecue at home, make sure it is on level ground and away from decking, fences, trees and balconies.'
Comparison with Spain Wildfires
The warning comes as Spain experiences one of its deadliest wildfire seasons on record, with 12 people killed and dozens missing. Several victims were found inside burnt-out vehicles, believed to have died while trying to flee the flames. It is feared that four Britons are among the dead.
Forecast and Relief
Despite a breeze across much of the UK, temperatures are forecast to remain high, with 31–33°C possible in parts of south-east Wales and south-west England. Some relief is expected on Sunday, as heavy rain is likely in parts of Scotland, according to Met Office weather maps. However, London and other areas remain at extreme risk.
