Fire and rescue services are urging the public to follow local authority guidance on fire risks and restrictions as wildfire danger remains elevated across the UK, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned.
More than 200 wildfires have been reported in England and Wales in under two weeks, bringing the 2026 total to 706, with eight incidents currently being monitored nationally.
Services are bracing for a possible fourth heatwave, with dry, hot conditions and harvesting activity increasing the risk of fires starting and spreading quickly.
The Government has pledged £97m for National Resilience wildfire assets, but fire chiefs say climate change means continued investment is essential to meet growing demand.
Comment
Phil Garrigan, chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: ‘More than 200 wildfires in just 12 days shows how quickly the risk can escalate when hot, dry conditions take hold.
‘The scenes we’re seeing across parts of Europe are a stark reminder of what a changing climate means for fire and rescue services. We are not seeing fires of that scale in the UK today, but the science tells us we should expect larger, more frequent and more complex wildfires in the future.
‘That’s why we need continued investment in specialist wildfire capabilities, including aerial firefighting support, so we’re prepared for the risks ahead.
‘But prevention remains our strongest defence. Most wildfires are avoidable, and we’re asking everyone to take extra care during the hot weather to help keep their communities safe.’
