Exceptional wildfire risk in the UK as heat health alerts are issued from July 12 to 15

Parts of the UK are under an "exceptional" wildfire risk due to a record-breaking heatwave, as stated by Natural England. The heat health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are in effect from 09:00 BST on July 12 to 21:00 on July 15, signaling significant health impacts.

Wildfire Risk Assessment and Heatwave Conditions

On Sunday, large areas of southern England and parts of the south Midlands were assessed to be at "exceptional" risk for wildfires. Many regions in England and Wales are at "very high" risk, which is expected to persist throughout the week. This ongoing heatwave has already lasted over a week, with temperatures consistently exceeding the heatwave threshold.

Despite a slight drop in temperature due to brisk winds, the western half of England and Wales remains hot, with highs reaching 26-30°C (79-86°F) and potential peaks of 31-33°C (88-91°F) in parts of south-east Wales and south-west England. Amber health alerts will continue for south-west England and the West Midlands, where the highest temperatures are anticipated.

Factors Contributing to the High Fire Risk

The combination of three record-breaking heatwaves and a prolonged lack of rainfall has significantly increased the wildfire risk in many areas. As the hot and dry weather continues, the UKHSA warns that the drying of vegetation will accelerate, raising the likelihood of fires.

Additionally, stronger winds will facilitate the spread of any fires that ignite, making them harder to control. The risk is anticipated to decrease slightly by midweek, but "exceptional" wildfire danger could persist across East Anglia into Wednesday, according to a spokesperson from the National Fire Chiefs Council.

Forecast for the Heatwave and Rainfall

Low pressure in the Bay of Biscay may bring some showers to the far south-west of England starting Sunday, with expectations for more widespread thundery showers by midweek. However, temperatures are likely to remain in the high 20s and low 30s, even with the potential for rain.

It is not until the end of the week that the heatwave is expected to ease, as a cooler north wind will replace the current conditions. The associated low pressure will bring a greater chance of rain across the UK, marking the end of the heatwave.