The Met Office has sparked concerns by issuing an amber alert for wildfire risks across the UK, triggered by the ongoing spell of balmy weather. Most territories in England are under this alert, including the capital city of London, Dover in Kent and Wiltshire. The warning is even stretching its reach into Northern Ireland and southern regions of Scotland as of Wednesday.
This action follows a series of warm days which show no signs of abating soon, with mercury levels anticipated to soar to a sizzling 22C by Friday. With such conditions at play, fire services are appealing to the public to exhibit caution and mindfulness to avoid accidentally igniting widespread wildfires.
Weather expert Kathryn Chalk from the Met Office highlighted the current climate scenario: “With strong winds and ongoing dry/warm weather this brings a continued likelihood for wildfire conditions through the period.”
She expanded on the current situation: “There is currently an amber fire danger rating across England extending into Northern Ireland and the rest of southern Scotland on Wednesday.”
In terms of respite from the parched conditions, she noted: “However, showers moving into the far South West will bring some relief to these parts. Then dry weather continues Friday and Saturday extending further north across western Scotland.” Addressing the scope of the warning, Chalk clarified: “It’s a large England warning, covering most of England.”
On the predictability of specific wildfire outbreaks, she advised: “We can’t be specific on locations due to the nature of wildfires though, and best to stick with the weather conditions with the dry air, breezy and warm conditions, hence the warning, with slightly cooler conditions with the onshore breeze along eastern coasts.”
The London Fire Brigade has warned that despite the cooler temperatures compared to summer, wildfires can still occur due to the unusually dry start to spring this year. The fire service is urging the public to avoid using disposable barbecues and to dispose of cigarettes, matches and litter responsibly to prevent potential fire hazards.
Assistant Commissioner Paul McCourt from the London Fire Brigade stated: “We want everyone to enjoy the sunshine but we urge people to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and help prevent a grass fire from starting.”
He further highlighted recent incidents in Los Angeles and South Korea as examples of how quickly fires can spread outdoors, even in less than peak temperatures. He added: “The Met Office has issued an amber wildfire warning, covering London, and this will be in place for the rest of the week.”
As the weather warms up towards the weekend, Londoners are being advised against having barbecues in open spaces or on balconies, including disposable ones, and to dispose of rubbish and cigarettes carefully to avoid accidentally starting a fire. McCourt concluded by saying: “We’re also working closely with partners, such as local authorities, to help manage the risks in outdoor spaces and ensure the public are following the safety advice.”