UK wildfire threat hits ‘exceptional’ levels with heatwave set to last

Parts of the United Kingdom are at “exceptional” risk of wildfires as the heatwave continues, experts have warned. Areas in southern England and the Midlands are highlighted as being at the highest risk, according to Natural England.

Its fire severity index shows the area of “exceptional” risk is set to increase and spread to the southeast and east of England by the middle of the week, while most of the rest of England and Wales is deemed to be of “very high” risk over the coming days.

The Met Office said the scorching heatwave conditions experienced by much of the UK are expected to last into the coming week, with most areas set to stay dry, sunny, and very hot.

Dave Swallow, National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) wildfire deputy lead, warned that such conditions “significantly increase wildfire risk”.

“But most wildfires start because something provides the spark,” Swallow said. “Whether it is a disposable barbecue left behind, a discarded cigarette or even a glass bottle left in the sunshine, we all have a role to play in preventing them. Summer should be a time for people to enjoy the outdoors but it’s important not to underestimate the risks.”

Emergency services have already faced a surge in incidents. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue has been called out to two moorland wildfires in recent days, while the London Fire Brigade dealt with a field blaze in Orpington and a fire involving shrubbery at Stratford Station that caused rail line closures.