Britons are being advised against hosting barbecues or lighting bonfires due to a series of severe wildfires that have occurred. The UK has already witnessed as many scorching 30C days in 2026 as the historic year of 1976, marking the country’s third heatwave of the summer, as reported by the Met Office.
While many are relishing the bright sunshine and indulging in barbecues, the prolonged absence of rain has resulted in extremely dry vegetation across much of the nation, contributing to the outbreak of numerous wildfires. Temperatures soared to 30.1C in Hurn, Dorset, on Monday, marking the ninth consecutive day with temperatures surpassing 30C somewhere in the country. During June’s heatwave, temperatures exceeded 30C for seven consecutive days.
Fire and rescue teams are facing significant challenges as they combat wildfires, with seven English regions issued yellow heat-health warnings until Friday by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The North West, South West, South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, and London are among the regions on high alert.
In North Wales, the fire service cautioned people against entering the vicinity of Capelulo village, where numerous homes were evacuated due to a wildfire at Conwy Mountain. Matt Rowe, group manager for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, highlighted that the careless disposal of cigarettes or barbecue items is the primary cause of recent wildfires in the area.
Over 60 firefighters were mobilized to tackle a wildfire at Blackwater in Hampshire, near Camberley in Surrey, over the weekend. The challenging terrain, mainly gorse, and difficult access made firefighting operations arduous, according to Mr. Rowe.
With an extreme weather warning in place for wildfires due to strong winds, authorities are advising against bonfires at home. If barbecuing, individuals are urged to have water on hand, and for outings, opting for picnics instead of barbecues is recommended. The fire service emphasized the heightened wildfire risk in Hampshire and Isle of Wight, urging the public to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires.
Phil Garrigan, chairman of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), emphasized the dangers of wildfires during the hot weather, cautioning that dry vegetation can quickly escalate small incidents into large-scale fires, endangering communities, firefighters, and the environment. Garrigan urged the public to be extra cautious outdoors, avoid disposable barbecues in open spaces, refrain from discarding cigarettes on the ground, and ensure proper waste disposal.
The Met Office forecasts the heatwave to persist across much of the UK, with temperatures peaking on Wednesday at possible highs of 33C in parts of southern-central England. By the latter part of the week, temperatures are expected to moderate, with peak temperatures reaching the mid to high-20s for many by Saturday.
