Holly Morgan

A UK Government emergency alert warning of a high national wildfire risk was sent to millions of phones in England and Wales, with some recipients receiving the Welsh-language warning before the English version and others hearing multiple alerts. The confusion prompted a surge in non-emergency 999 calls, including in North Wales. Authorities reported numerous wildfires across Wales, evacuations in several communities and continuing extreme heat, while urging people to avoid activities such as using disposable barbecues, firepits and fireworks, keep away from fires and not fly drones over them. The government temporarily banned disposable barbecue sales and announced the deployment of 100 additional military personnel. Welsh Labour criticised the Welsh Government for responding too slowly and called for stronger leadership and financial support for affected communities.