MPs warn wildfires are now part of UK reality

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 12:32 · Archive

The Efra Committee says wildfires must be treated as a permanent threat following record-breaking fires this summer.

After one of the most severe summers on record for UK fires, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee has warned that 'wildfire is part of our new reality'. The committee said fires can no longer be regarded as rare or exceptional events as climate change increases their frequency and severity.

The UK experienced record-breaking heat in summer 2026, with widespread drought in England and Wales. Fire crews in those countries responded to 1,132 wildfires in the year to August 16, exceeding the entire total recorded in 2025. Significant fires struck all parts of the UK, from Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains to the Cairngorms in Scotland, the Rhinogydd mountains in Wales, and sites including Dunwich Heath, the New Forest and Stourbridge in England. The fire at Stourbridge destroyed 19 homes.

Committee chairman Alistair Carmichael said 'prevention is vital' since the vast majority of fires are man-made. He called for 'a cultural shift that puts us in step with fire-savvy nations such as Australia', including public awareness campaigns and restrictions on disposable barbecues at high-risk times of year. Fire and rescue services need investment in specialist equipment, with new firefighting planes described as a 'minimum requirement'.

How it is being reported

• MPs warn wildfires are 'part of our new reality' following severe summerAfter one of the most severe summers on record for fires across the UK, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) Committee warned “wildfire is part of our new reality”.Malvern Gazette · 21 Oct, 12:11
• MPs warn wildfires are 'part of our new reality' following severe summerAfter one of the most severe summers on record for fires across the UK, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) Committee warned “wildfire is part of our new reality”.Worcester News · 21 Oct, 12:11

In this story: Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee · Alistair Carmichael · Australia · England · Wales · Scotland · Northern Ireland · Stourbridge

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem