Wildfires could become ‘exceptionally severe’ if they break out in the South East, forecasters warned
The UK could see “exceptionally severe” wildfires spread in the south and east of England this week due to extremely hot and dry conditions, forecasters have warned.
The country is bracing for its fourth heatwave of the summer as temperatures are expected to soar to 35C in the hottest areas in the South East. Several amber and yellow heat alerts are in place as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned the rising temperatures may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.
It comes after a sweltering and exceptionally dry June which has left the UK’s most parched regions without rain for weeks.
An assessment from the Met Office shows by Wednesday, wildfires could be exceptionally severe if they start in parts of London, the South East and eastern England.
Parts of Wales have already declared drought status, while swathes of England are in “prolonged dry weather” status, which is the last stage before a drought is declared.
The Cairngorms in Scotland have been hit by a major wildfire while blazes have wrought destruction in mainland Europe this week.
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