Millions startled by emergency alert with wildfire warning after UK blazes

Emily Bashforth | Live News reporter Published August 14, 2026 7:12pm Updated August 14, 2026 7:19pm An emergency alert was issued amid the fifth heatwave (Picture: Annabel Lee-Ellis/PA Wire) Millions were sent into panic tonight as an emergency alert appeared unexpectedly on their phones. At around 7pm, people across England and Wales received a notification, warning against lighting anything that could spark a wildfire, including barbecues, campfires, and fireworks. It read: ‘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