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 and emergency responders at risk.
‘Follow official updates and report signs of fire immediately by calling 999. Search gov.uk/alerts for more information.’
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The alert follows the outbreak of several major blazes, including a wildfire in Stourbridge, in the West Midlands, where 19 homes were destroyed.
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