Chance of wildfire ignition 'never been so high'
A wildfire expert warns that the UK is facing an unprecedented risk of wildfires due to record-breaking heatwaves and dry conditions. Experts emphasize that human activity, such as discarded cigarettes or barbecues, combined with environmental factors, creates a high probability of ignition.
Why it matters
As climate change alters weather patterns, traditionally temperate regions like the UK are increasingly vulnerable to wildfire threats previously associated with hotter climates.
Image source, Devon and Somerset Fire Image caption, A number of wildfires have broken out in England and Wales
A wildfires expert says she has never seen the UK be so at risk of a fire breaking out as the area experiences a record-breaking heatwave .
Claire Belcher, who is an Exeter University professor, explained a fire prediction system built by a group of universities recorded the likelihood of a fire being ignited by a spark in Somerset at 100% on Wednesday.
"If you had an ember from a bonfire or a barbecue or a spark perhaps from agricultural machinery or something, there is a extremely high chance it could start an ignition," she said.
Earlier this week, Natural England asked people to dispose of cigarettes responsibly and not use disposable barbecues in wild areas amid an "exceptional" fire risk.
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