British Prime Minister Andy Burnham will chair an emergency government meeting on Wednesday to discuss measures to tackle extreme heat, wildfires and drought as the country faces its fifth heatwave of the year.
The meeting of the government’s emergency response committee will focus on protecting communities, securing water supplies and supporting farmers amid worsening dry conditions, Burnham’s office said.
Temperatures are expected to reach around 37°C (98.6°F) from Thursday across southern and eastern England and parts of the Midlands, according to the Met Office.
The intensifying heat comes as fire services face a surge in wildfires. Fire chiefs said they had responded to 966 wildfires across England and Wales so far this year, including 185 in the first 10 days of August alone.
The farming industry has also warned that prolonged heat and dry weather could reduce agricultural production, adding to pressure on already stretched water resources.
“We will continue to take the action needed to keep communities safe, protect water supplies, support farming communities and safeguard the environment,” a Downing Street spokesperson said.
Most of Britain is experiencing a flash drought, driven by exceptionally low rainfall combined with higher temperatures. England and Wales recorded their driest July in 190 years, according to the Met Office.
Government figures show about 45 million people are living in areas affected by drought, while 27 million are facing restrictions on water use.
The heat is also taking a toll on public health. UK health authorities estimated last month that 2,877 people had died from heat-related causes in Britain this year, with the figure approaching the record recorded in 2022.
Scientists say climate change is exacerbating prolonged periods of hot and dry weather, intensifying pressure on agriculture, public water supplies and wildlife.
Boluwatife Enome
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