The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is warning that the risk of wildfires remains elevated across the UK, as Fire and Rescue Services prepare for the possibility of a fourth heatwave this year. New National Resilience data reveals that more than 200 wildfires were reported across England and Wales in less than two weeks, underlining the continued pressure on emergency responders during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather.

Fire and Rescue Services in England and Wales have responded to 706 wildfires so far in 2026, with 208 incidents recorded between 16 and 28 July alone. Eight active wildfire incidents are currently being monitored through national reporting systems.

These figures do not include incidents elsewhere in the UK, including the significant wildfire in Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, demonstrating that wildfire risk extends beyond regional boundaries and requires a coordinated national response.

While the total number of incidents in England and Wales remains below the 788 recorded by the same point in 2025, fire chiefs warn that continued dry conditions, rising temperatures and seasonal agricultural activity are creating an environment where fires can ignite and spread rapidly.

Building resilience against a growing threat

The warning comes as several European countries continue to experience severe wildfire activity. Large-scale incidents across Spain, France, Greece and other parts of southern Europe have resulted in widespread evacuations, environmental damage and sustained pressure on emergency services.

Although wildfires in the UK are generally smaller in scale, climate change is increasing the frequency and complexity of these incidents. As weather patterns become more extreme, Fire and Rescue Services are likely to face greater operational demands, requiring enhanced preparedness, specialist capabilities and sustained investment.

The Government's recent announcement of a dedicated wildfire capability, including strategically positioned response teams and a £97 million investment in National Resilience assets, has been welcomed as a positive step towards strengthening the UK's response to wildfire incidents.

However, the NFCC stresses that addressing the long-term impacts of climate change will require continued investment in specialist wildfire equipment, firefighter training, national resilience assets and access to aerial firefighting capability to support operational response during significant incidents.

Wildfires place considerable demands on Fire and Rescue Services, often requiring large numbers of firefighters, specialist vehicles and equipment, alongside mutual aid through national resilience arrangements. As wildfire risk continues to evolve, investment in prevention, preparedness and response capabilities will remain essential to protecting communities, critical infrastructure and the natural environment.

Stark reminder

Phil Garrigan, chair of the NFCC, explained: “More than 200 wildfires in just 12 days shows how quickly the risk can escalate when hot and dry conditions take hold. The scenes we’re seeing across parts of Europe are a stark reminder of what a changing climate means for Fire and Rescue Services. We’re not seeing fires of that scale in the UK today, but the science tells us we should expect larger, more frequent and more complex wildfires in the future.”

Garrigan continued: “That’ why we need continued investment in specialist wildfire capabilities, including aerial firefighting support, so that we’re fully prepared for the risks ahead. Prevention remains our strongest defence. Most wildfires are avoidable. As such, we’re asking everyone to take extra care during the hot weather in order to help keep their communities safe."

Many wildfires are caused by everyday human activity. Simple actions such as disposing of cigarettes safely, avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in open spaces and taking litter home can significantly reduce the risk of fires starting.

*Further information is available online at www.nfcc.org.uk

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