Wildfires in the UK and Europe are a "stark reminder of the challenges posed by an increasingly extreme climate", the Prince of Wales has said. More than 300,000 people have so far been evacuated from parts of France and Spain as wildfires continue to rage across the continent, with another intense heatwave on the way.
In Scotland, a major incident was declared at the weekend because of a major wildfire in the Cairngorms, while a number of smaller fires have burned elsewhere in the UK.
What did Prince William say?
Prince William wrote in a post on X:
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires across France, Spain and the UK.
We are deeply grateful to the firefighters, emergency services and volunteers working tirelessly in extraordinarily difficult conditions.
These events are a stark reminder of the challenges posed by an increasingly extreme climate and the importance of protecting both people and nature.
His comments came as climate change continues to drive up temperatures around the world, particularly in Europe. According to the Copernicus climate service, Europe is the fastest warming continent, heating up twice as fast as the global average.
Why are the wildfires getting worse?
Higher temperatures are contributing to more frequent summer heatwaves, greater pressure on Europe’s water supply and more intense wildfires. Wildfires are currently tearing through France and Spain.
France has seen its worst fires in two decades, while officials in the Spanish capital Madrid say the fires are the worst the region has ever experienced.
What is the situation in the UK?
In the UK, an assessment by the Met Office showed that fires could be exceptionally severe by Wednesday if they were to start in parts of London, the south east or the east of England because of hot, dry conditions.
London Fire Brigade said it dealt with more than 1,300 incidents over the weekend, including grass fires, property fires and rescuing a person from the Thames.
The brigade has urged people to avoid disposable barbecues, dispose of smoking materials and put litter in the bin or take it home to avoid starting wildfires.
What happens next?
Temperatures are expected to rise again later this week, with a fourth heatwave of the year looming for some areas. Amber heat health alerts have been issued for much of eastern England.
According to provisional Met Office data, July has been 3C above average across the UK, which could see it end up as one of the hottest Julys on record.
Key Facts
- More than 300,000 people have been evacuated from parts of France and Spain.
- A major incident was declared in the Cairngorms in Scotland at the weekend.
- London Fire Brigade dealt with more than 1,300 incidents over the weekend.
- Amber heat health alerts are in place for much of eastern England.
- Provisional Met Office data says July has been 3C above average across the UK.
