Confusion as millions of people's phones across England and Wales get emergency wildfire alert

See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred Source Published: 14:16 EDT, 14 August 2026 | Updated: 14:32 EDT, 14 August 2026 Confusion broke out across England and Wales tonight as millions received an emergency wildfire alert. The alert was sent to mobile phones across the country at 7pm today warning against lighting anything that could spark a wildfire, including barbecues, campfires, and fireworks. It is the largest ever use of the technology since the emergency alert system was introduced in 2023. It warned that even small flames could 'rapidly develop into a major wildfire'. The alert interrupted BBC1's The One Show as the alert sounded throughout the programme. Host Alex Jones, who clearly did not know the alarm would be issued, said: 'You couldn't make that up could you. 'I think that's the fire alarm...I'm doing my best to keep a straight face.'Andy Burnham wrote on X that the alert was sent because 'the wildfire risk remains very high'. He added: 'I'm asking everyone to take extra care. 'Please that the Emergency Alert seriously and follow the guidance in place.' Millions of people received this alert tonight as people were warned not to light anything that could spark a fire This is a breaking news story.