A UK wildfire alert has been sent to millions across England and Wales, warning people to avoid activities that could start fires.
LONDON: Millions of people across England and Wales received an emergency alert on their mobile phones on Friday evening as the UK government warned of a “very high risk” of wildfires across the country.
The UK wildfire alert was sent at around 7pm on August 14, asking residents, visitors and landowners to be extra careful and avoid anything that could accidentally start a fire.
People have been told not to use disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks while the risk remains high.
Also read: Germany wildfire forces 1,800 people to leave their homes
The government also warned that even a small flame could quickly turn into a major wildfire, putting people, homes, businesses and firefighters in danger. Anyone who sees signs of a fire should move to safety and call 999 immediately.
The warning comes after a period of extremely hot and dry weather across the UK.
Britain has been experiencing its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures reaching a provisional 38.1°C in London on August 13. It was the hottest day of 2026 so far and the fifth-hottest day recorded in the UK, according to Reuters.
The dry weather has left grass, woodland and other vegetation much easier to burn, meaning a small fire can spread quickly.
The warning also follows serious fires in different parts of the country. In Stourbridge in the West Midlands, homes were damaged as a large grass fire spread through the area, forcing people to leave their properties.
Also read: Mexico uncovers four secret oil refineries in major crackdown on fuel theft
Fire services are already dealing with a busy wildfire season. Reuters reported that the number of wildfires in England and Wales has passed the previous annual record of 1,017 set in 2025.
The government is now stepping up its response, including extra support for firefighters and an immediate ban on disposable barbecues. Military assistance is also being provided as emergency services deal with fires across the country.
For the public, the advice is simple: avoid anything that could create a spark or flame, especially around dry grass or woodland.
The UK wildfire alert is a reminder that everyday activities such as lighting a barbecue or firepit can become dangerous very quickly during extremely dry weather.
News Impact
People across England and Wales are being asked to take extra care outdoors. With land extremely dry, avoiding barbecues, fireworks and open flames could help prevent new fires and reduce pressure on emergency services.
