Patrick Glover

The UK government issued an emergency alert across England and Wales warning of a serious wildfire risk and urging people not to use disposable barbecues, campfires, fire pits, garden incinerators or fireworks. The warning followed major fires, including one that destroyed 19 homes, and came alongside a UK-wide ban on the sale of disposable barbecues. Major retailers had already begun removing the grills from sale. Authorities also warned of health risks from an ongoing heatwave, with temperatures reaching 38.1°C, while prolonged dry weather and drought increased pressure on water supplies and pushed reservoir levels in England down to 66%.