‘Exceptional’ wildfire risk for parts of UK as heatwave health alerts issued

Three record-breaking heatwaves and a prolonged lack of rainfall have left many parts of England and Wales facing an increasing wildfire risk.

Over the next few days, the continued hot and dry weather, coupled with strengthening winds and lower humidity, is expected to accelerate the drying of vegetation, increasing the risk for fires.

Stronger winds would also allow any fires that do break out to spread more rapidly and become harder to contain.

The risk is expected to ease slightly towards the middle of next week as winds become lighter and the chance of showers increases. However, current forecasts suggest “exceptional” wildfire danger could persist across East Anglia by Wednesday.

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.”