Experts warn parts of the UK are at 'exceptional' risk of wildfires as the heatwave continues

As a major incident is declared in Wales today (12 July), it’s warned that the heatwave may bring a greater risk of wildfires in the UK.

Firefighters have been tackling a blaze near Conwy Mountain and the Sychnant Pass in Conwy county since this morning (12 July). It’s expected that operations will continue ‘for some time’ with people urged to avoid the area and residents nearby to keep windows and doors closed.

But as emergency services issue advice to those in the area of the mountain wildfire, experts have warned that parts of the UK are at ‘exceptional’ risk.

This comes as heatwave conditions are due to last into the coming week with the Met Office forecasting that most areas are expected to stay dry, sunny and very hot.

It's warned that areas of the UK are at an increased risk. (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Wildfires risk

Natural England have highlighted areas in southern England and the Midlands as being at highest risk of wildfires as the heatwave continues.

Its fire severity index shows the area of ‘exceptional’ risk is set to increase and spread to the Southeast and east of England by the middle of the week.

And most of the rest of England and Wales is deemed to be of ‘very high’ risk over these coming days.

Dave Swallow, National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) wildfire deputy lead and lead tactical adviser, warned that the weather conditions of heatwaves ‘significantly increase wildfire risk’.

“But most wildfires start because something provides the spark,” he added.

“Whether it is a disposable barbecue left behind, a discarded cigarette or even a glass bottle left in the sunshine, we all have a role to play in preventing them.

“Summer should be a time for people to enjoy the outdoors but it’s important not to underestimate the risks. Every year we see devastating wildfires and tragic drownings in inland water.

“As more schools break up for the summer holiday, we’re asking people to enjoy the warmer weather safely, look out for one another and take simple steps to help prevent avoidable tragedies.”

A wildfire in the Peak District in May. (Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images)

‘Major incident’ in Wales

As blazes are reported on the South Downs in Sussex, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service meanwhile declared a major incident due to the spread of a wildfire near Sychnant Pass on Conwy Mountain.

Emergency services are working in ‘challenging conditions’ in order to contain the fire and protect local communities.

Jami Jennings from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service told the BBC: “Wildfires can spread rapidly, particularly during periods of hot, dry and windy weather.

“We continue to ask everyone to act responsibly by avoiding the use of disposable barbecues, ensuring cigarettes are fully extinguished and reporting any signs of fire immediately by calling 999."