Andy Burnham explains why millions across UK got terrifying alert today as chaos erupts

The Prime Minister has shared the 'devastating' reason why an emergency alert was sent out to phones across the UK earlier this evening.

At 7pm, phones loudly emitted the sound of the alert, to share an important warning about the risk of wildfires in the UK as the drought conditions continue amid the recent heatwaves.

The alert reads: "There is a very high risk of wildfires nationally. Residents, landowners and visitors should not undertake any activity that could start a fire, including disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks.

"Even a small flame can rapidly develop into a major wildfire placing lives, homes, businesses and emergency responders at risk."

Now Andy Burnham has issued a statement explaining exactly why it was sent out.

The official alert that was sent out (LADbible)

He said: "This evening, an Emergency Alert has been sent to people across England and Wales as the wildfire risk remains very high. The request came directly from Fire and Rescue Services.

"I was in Stourbridge today and saw first-hand the devastating impact these fires have had on people’s homes and lives.

"Our priority now is to keep everyone safe and prevent more fires from starting.

"During this period of extreme heat, I’m asking everyone to take extra care. Please do not light any fires in gardens, the countryside or other open spaces, including parks, moorland and wooded areas.

"Our firefighters and emergency responders are working around the clock in incredibly difficult conditions.

"We can all help them. Please take the Emergency Alert seriously and follow the guidance in place."

His warning comes after several weeks of incredibly hot weather across the UK, with millions of people enduring temperatures well into the mid 30s at several points this week already.

Wildfires have been a huge issue this summer (Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images)

Wildfires have been ravaging the United Kingdom as the country experiences more soaring temperatures in the fifth heatwave of the summer and therefore it's no surprise that the warning about using any sort of flame has now been issued, even if it did catch a lot of people off guard.

There was no real warning that it might be coming either, as we have seen in previous years, as it has interrupted live programmes on BBC One and the radio amongst others.

Although it might have been a little annoying or even frightening at the time, there is no doubt that the emergency alerts can be an important tool for the government to get vital messages across.

Pat McFadden, the new Work and Pensions secretary, said: “It is a vital tool for keeping the nation safe when lives are on the line – and every minute matters."

The government adds: “The Emergency Alerts system represents an important tool for keeping communities safe, and this test helps ensure it will be ready when we need it most.

"While the brief interruption on Sunday afternoon might be inconvenient, it's a small price to pay for a system that could one day help save lives.”