Wildfire alert for London as temperatures soar in heatwave towards record 33C for May

London has been placed on wildfire alert as temperatures are expected to rise toward 33C. The London Fire Brigade warned of a higher than normal wildfire threat linked to a wet and warm winter that encouraged grass and plant growth, followed by one of the driest Aprils on record. The Natural Hazards Partnership assessed heightened wildfire risk over the Bank Holiday weekend and during half-term school holidays. Fire chiefs urged people to prevent grass fires and wildfires by avoiding disposable barbecues, which are banned in many parks, and by being careful when disposing of cigarettes. Advice includes using barbecues only on level ground, keeping them away from flammable materials, not using them on balconies or decking, and keeping children and pets away. Wildfires are more common in Outer London due to larger green spaces.

"London was put on wildfire alert as temperatures were set to spiral towards 33C in coming days. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) raised the alarm about a higher than normal threat of wildfires due to the wet and warm winter, which encouraged grass and plants to grow, followed by one of the driest Aprils on record. The Natural Hazards Partnership has assessed there will be a heightened risk of wildfires in London over the Bank Holiday weekend, as well as the half-term school holidays."

"Fire chiefs stressed that many Londoners may not realise the risk of lighting a widespread blaze from a barbecue even in spring. They urged people to try to prevent grass fires and wildfires by not using disposable barbecues, which are banned in many London parks, and to also be careful when disposing of cigarettes. A heathland wildfire got close to homes in Dagenham last July."

"Key LFB advice on barbecues includes: * Position it on level ground * Ensure it is away from flammable materials like fences, sheds and trees * Don't have a barbecue on a balcony or decking * Keep children and pets away from barbecues Wildfires are more common in Outer London, including popular venues such as Epping Forest, than in the city centre, given that there are more and bigger green spaces."

"With higher temperatures expected, we're urging people not to light fires or barbecues of any kind, and to take litter home, said Caroline Haines, chair of the City of London Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee. Temperatures reached 26.9C in Heathrow, west London, early on Friday afternoon, the Met Office said. They may climb to 33C in the capital or other parts of southern England on Monday."

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