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England Scorched: 2026 Wildfires Second Highest On Record
8 Oct
Summary
- England recorded its second-highest wildfire total in 2026, with 1,354 blazes by August.
- The current year's figures trail only the record set in 2022 due to prolonged hot, dry weather.
- Major incidents included fires devastating the New Forest and destroying homes in Stourbridge.
England has recorded its second-highest annual total of wildfires in 2026, with provisional figures showing 1,354 blazes between January and August.
This alarming number, largely attributed to prolonged hot and dry weather conditions that parched the countryside, is second only to the record set in 2022. The current year's incidents have impacted diverse areas, including ancient woodlands in the New Forest and residential properties.
Devastating fires also occurred at Dunwich Heath, impacting wildlife habitats. In response to the conditions, a temporary ban on disposable barbecues was implemented in August. Historically, wildfire numbers remained below 721 until 2018, when they surpassed 1,000 for the first time.
