Wildfires threaten to sweep across parts of the country this weekend, after ministers were warned of an “unprecedented” risk to homes and the countryside.
The Fire Severity Index, which assesses how easily a blaze could spread, is forecast at the highest, “exceptional” level for much of southern England this Sunday - with temperatures expected to reach 36C over the weekThe warning system has been on the second highest level of alert now for seven weeks, a record stretch after the driest start to the year since 1976. Dozens of homes were destroyed in wildfires during last month’s record heat, prompting claims worth more than £1.2 million to one major home insurer.
An amber heat health warning in place since Tuesday could be stepped up as temperatures rise this weekend. The fire risk could prompt closures in national parks, as temporary bans were announced on the use of disposable barbecues, lanterns and campfires. Firework displays have already been cancelled, smokers barred from golf courses and sparklers banned from weddings, amid fears that fires could run out of control in bone dry conditions.
The NFCC holds regular meetings with the Home Office, which leads the government response on fires. It has also been holding emergency meetings with fire chiefs from across the country to prepare for this weekend’s conditions.
The wildfire risk was also raised in a meeting this week between farming groups, the Forestry Commission and the water industry to discuss the drought conditions. Farmers warned that the early harvest has left more fire fuel in the countryside.
The Government could officially declare parts of southern England to be in drought on Friday, ahead of a meeting of the National Drought Group - which is likely to trigger more hosepiThe National Farmers Union has called for local authorities to issue bans on naked flames in at-risk areas.
Sam Durham, NFU land management chief adviser, said: “With the prolonged dry spell continuing and with more extreme heat expected this week, the potential for more wildfires is increasing.
“With harvest completed in many areas earlier than usual, fields of stubble now have a huge risk of fires spreading should they start, as there are no fire breaks within fields.”
“We are urging visitors to the countryside to take extra care to avoid starting a fire, as a dropped match or smouldering barbecue is all that’s needed to start a serious blaze.”
On Wednesday George Eustice, the Environment Secretary, met with water company bosses and said he had been assured that supplies remain resilient across the country. Mr Eustice has called on the industry to impose more hosepipe bans to protect supThe Liberal Democrats called for the Government to appoint a drought minister and declare a national emergency, including a weekly televised press conference to update the public on guidance to limit water supplies.