UK Wildfire: Wales wildfire triggers evacuations as Manchester blaze rages; Southern England placed under ‘exceptional’ wildfire risk amid scorching heat

A massive wildfire in Wales forced people to flee their homes and a fast-moving Manchester wildfire burning across the Peak District has put Britain on high alert, as authorities declared an "exceptional" wildfire risk across parts of southern England. Fueled by weeks of intense heat, dry vegetation and strong winds, firefighters continue battling multiple blazes. The officials have warned that the UK's prolonged heatwave has created perfect conditions for more dangerous wildfires, reports news agency AFP.

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Southern England placed under 'exceptional' wildfire risk

Government advisory body Natural England has classified several parts of southern England as facing an "exceptional" risk of wildfires, the highest level on its Fire Severity Index.

The warning covers popular coastal destinations and surrounding areas, including the Isle of Wight, Bognor Regis, and Lyme Regis. Under this level of risk, authorities can consider restricting public access to vulnerable countryside locations to reduce the chances of fires starting.


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Most other parts of England and Wales are currently rated at "very high" wildfire risk, with officials warning that even a small spark could rapidly turn into a large wildfire because of the exceptionally dry conditions.

London also on high alert as fires disrupt transport

London Fire Brigade had already declared an "extreme" wildfire risk over the weekend as temperatures remained unusually high.

In east London, part of the Overground rail network was closed on Monday after a fire broke out beside railway tracks, damaging infrastructure. On Sunday, another wildfire scorched fields on the southeastern edge of the capital, highlighting how vulnerable even urban areas have become during the prolonged heatwave.

Major wildfire forces evacuations in North Wales

One of the most serious incidents unfolded on Conwy Mountain in north Wales, where emergency services declared a major incident after a rapidly spreading wildfire threatened nearby communities.

Residents were evacuated from their homes as firefighters worked to stop the flames from spreading across the hillside. Video released by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service showed thick white smoke rising into the sky while large stretches of land were left blackened and charred.

Local Member of Parliament Claire Hughes described the scale of the fire on X, writing: "I can smell the smoke from my house."

She added: We are used to fires on the mountain, but this is a different scale entirely." According to the BBC, emergency crews continued working through difficult conditions, with strong winds making it harder to bring the blaze under control and residents urged to stay away from the affected area.

Peak District moorland fires continue to burn

Firefighters were also battling several wildfires across the Peak District in northern England.

One of the largest blazes at Tintwistle Moor, west of Manchester, had already been declared a major incident on Sunday. Crews remained at the scene on Monday after overnight winds reignited flames and complicated firefighting efforts. Helicopters and specialist teams have also been deployed to help contain the fire.

Why is the wildfire risk so high?

The UK has experienced an extraordinary run of hot weather this year, with multiple heatwaves since May leaving vegetation extremely dry.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) warned last week that the country's third heatwave of the season was expected to last longer than previous ones, significantly increasing the chances of large wildfires.

When dry grass, heathland and forests are exposed to prolonged heat and strong winds, even something as small as a discarded cigarette, disposable barbecue or stray spark can ignite a fast-moving blaze.

Authorities urge public to stay cautious

Emergency services are urging people to avoid activities that could accidentally start fires, especially in countryside areas already under the highest warning level.

Officials are asking the public to:

• Avoid disposable barbecues on grassland or moorland.
• Never discard cigarette ends outdoors.
• Report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.
• Stay away from active wildfire zones so emergency crews can work safely.

With hot, dry and windy conditions expected to continue in several regions, authorities say the wildfire threat is likely to remain elevated over the coming days.

(With inputs from AFP)