Third heatwave for London this summer which will last over this weekend. Natural Hazards Partnership assessment indicates a severe risk of wildfires in capital until at least Monday after low rainfall in 2025
High temperatures could cause fires in dry open spaces to spread rapidly as well as tempt Londoners to rivers and lakes
Public urged to follow advice to help prevent fires starting in the first place as well as stay safe around the water. Brigade continues calls for landowners and local authorities to take action now to protect communities from wildfires.
Wildfires
London Fire Brigade Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jamie Jenkins said: “London is experiencing its third heatwave of the summer, which looks like it will last into next week. Whilst many people will be looking forward to spending time in the sunshine, we are also urging everyone to be responsible to prevent wildfires or tragedies around the water.
“Despite the heavy rainfall earlier this week, the Natural Hazards Partnership has assessed that the risk of wildfires in London is currently severe. This is because rainfall overall this year has been well below-average. With very little sign of rain during this heatwave, grass will become even drier, increasing the wildfire risk further each day.
“So far this year, firefighters have responded to around 23 wildfires in the capital, including four this week. There have also been countless call-outs to smaller fires involving grass, trees and in other outdoor spaces, as well as in people’s gardens.
“During this latest heatwave, it is important everyone acts responsibly to prevent fires from occurring. As the weather has been so dry, it only takes a few sparks to lead to a fire spreading rapidly. In London, this is can be dangerous because so many of our green spaces lie close to homes and other properties.
“If you’re heading out, please don’t take a disposable BBQ with you. They can retain heat for several hours after use and are banned by local authorities from many of London’s parks. Also make sure you are discarding of cigarettes properly and take rubbish home with you if no bins are available.
“At home, make sure your BBQ is positioned away from flammable items like fences, sheds, decking and trees and please don’t have any type of BBQ on your balcony. We’re also strongly advising people to avoid burning any waste in this type of weather and to not have bonfires, particularly in their gardens.”
