Wildfires in England and Wales reach 716 as NFCC warns of growing pressure on fire services
Lewis Tyler
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Fire Chiefs say wildfires are placing increasing strain on firefighters and emergency response as incidents become more frequent, complex and prolonged
Fire and rescue services in England and Wales have responded to 716 wildfires so far in 2026, prompting the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) to warn that wildfires are becoming an increasingly significant and sustained operational challenge.
New National Resilience data shows the number of wildfire incidents this year has already equalled the combined annual totals recorded in 2021 (223), 2023 (293) and 2024 (200), highlighting the growing frequency of major wildfire incidents.
July has been the busiest month on record for wildfires, with firefighters responding to 393 incidents across England and Wales. Although the total remains below the same point in 2025, the NFCC said the duration and complexity of wildfire incidents continue to place considerable pressure on fire and rescue services.
Unlike many other emergency incidents, wildfires can burn for days, requiring sustained deployments of firefighters and specialist resources in remote locations, difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions. Fire crews often remain on scene long after the flames have been extinguished to prevent reignition, reducing opportunities for rest and recovery between incidents.
The NFCC warned that hotter, drier conditions are extending the wildfire season, with incidents starting earlier in the year and lasting longer, creating sustained demands on emergency response capabilities.
The council welcomed the UK Government’s recent investment in a new specialist wildfire capability, including strategically located wildfire response teams. However, it said continued investment will be required to ensure fire and rescue services have access to specialist equipment, trained personnel and aerial firefighting capability to respond to increasingly complex incidents.
Phil Garrigan, Chair of the NFCC, said: “We have already responded to more than 700 wildfires this year, and every one of those incidents places additional pressure on firefighters and fire and rescue services across the country.
“These fires can burn for days, often in remote locations, challenging terrain and extreme temperatures. They demand significant resources, tie up crews for prolonged periods and reduce opportunities for firefighters to rest and recover between incidents.
“Wildfires are no longer isolated or seasonal events. They are becoming a recurring and growing feature of the risks facing our communities and emergency services. As climate and environmental conditions continue to change, we must ensure our fire and rescue services are equipped to meet that challenge.
“That means sustained investment in specialist training, modern equipment, national resilience capabilities and the research and technology needed to improve our prevention, preparedness and response. We cannot afford to treat wildfires as an emerging risk any longer. They are a reality now, and our national capability must evolve accordingly.”
The NFCC is also urging the public to take extra care during periods of hot and dry weather, stressing that many wildfires are caused by human activity and are preventable.
Fire Chiefs are advising people to avoid using disposable barbecues in the countryside, dispose of cigarettes safely and avoid leaving glass bottles or litter in areas of dry vegetation. Members of the public should report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999 and asking for the Fire and Rescue Service. If suspicious behaviour or deliberate fire-setting is witnessed, it should be reported to police via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.