Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:03pm on 22 Aug 2026,Saturday Weather & Environment
Wildfires are becoming a bigger threat to homes and businesses across the UK, according to new analysis. Nearly 19% of large wildfires in England and Wales came within 500 metres of built-up areas this year. Fires are also burning for longer and covering larger areas. Wales has been hit hardest, with nearly 15,500 hectares burned in 2026. Fire chiefs said more than 1,100 wildfires have been reported across England and Wales. They warned that services are under pressure after years of cuts. Experts say climate change, heat and drought are increasing the risk. The danger could double in coming decades.
