Tesco and Sainsbury’s among supermarkets to pull disposable BBQs from shelves amid wildfire risk

Amber Met Office extreme heat warning has been issued for the UK as temperatures are projected to reach 38C, marking the arrival of a fifth heatwave of the year. The heat is expected to intensify and spread across the country, with temperatures in the mid-30s anticipated in parts of England and Wales by Thursday. The Met Office is considering issuing extreme heat warnings, highlighting growing concerns over the potential impact on infrastructure, health, and the environment. This follows a record-breaking summer that has seen multiple heatwaves, contributing to drought conditions and wildfires across the region. The heatwave is expected to bring temperatures as high as 36C in parts of the UK, with some areas potentially reaching 38C. The National Drought Group has confirmed that almost three-quarters of England is now in drought, with 45 million people affected. Over 27 million individuals are under water restrictions, including hosepipe bans, as reservoir levels continue to decline. The Environment Agency reports that reservoir storage across England has fallen to 69 percent, 12 percentage points below the long-term average for this time of year. Five reservoirs are classified as exceptionally low, with some nearing critical levels. The heatwave is expected to persist through the week, with temperatures continuing to rise. The UK Health Security Agency has issued heat health alerts across seven regions, including the East Midlands, West Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London. These alerts warn of significant health risks, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. The UK has experienced four heatwaves this year, with two record-breaking events in May and June leading to over 2,800 excess deaths. The current heatwave is expected to add to the strain on healthcare systems and exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. The prolonged dry weather has also contributed to a rise in wildfires, with firefighters working to contain blazes in areas such as the New Forest and Suffolk. The National Drought Group has noted that the drought conditions are worsening and will continue unless significant and sustained rainfall occurs. Officials have warned that the effects of the drought will have long-lasting impacts on the environment, wildlife, and the economy. The Environment Agency has called for greater conservation efforts, emphasizing that every drop of water saved is crucial for sustaining ecosystems and agricultural practices. As the heatwave progresses, the Met Office has indicated that temperatures could reach 39C in parts of the UK, with the West Midlands and London expected to see highs of 38C. The heat is expected to peak on Wednesday, with temperatures in central and southern England reaching up to 34C. East Anglia and the southeast are projected to experience even higher temperatures, potentially surpassing previous records. The humidity levels are also expected to rise, making the conditions more uncomfortable, particularly during nighttime hours. In response to the escalating crisis, Southern Water has applied for a Drought Order and Non-Essential Use Ban (NEUB), which would restrict water usage for non-critical purposes such as car washing and filling private swimming pools. This marks the first time such measures have been considered since 2006. Other water companies, including South West Water, have already imposed hosepipe bans, affecting millions of households. Farmers are also facing increasing challenges, with over 1,500 water abstraction licenses already in place and more expected to be introduced in East Anglia. Some farmers have resorted to building additional reservoirs to sustain their crops, despite the financial burden. The upcoming week promises a mix of continued heat and localized rainfall, with the Met Office forecasting a belt of rain sweeping across Scotland and Northern Ireland. While the rain may provide temporary relief, it is unlikely to alleviate the broader drought conditions. The Environment Agency warns that several areas could move toward or into drought status in the coming days, with the prospect of further restrictions on water use. As the summer progresses, the UK faces the challenge of managing the dual threat of extreme heat and prolonged dry spells, requiring coordinated efforts across government, industry, and communities to mitigate the impacts on public health, infrastructure, and the environment.