Mapped: 'Exceptionally high' wildfires threat facing London this week as temperatures to hit 33C

The UK Fire Severity Index map, produced by the Met Office and managed by Natural England, evaluates how severe a fire could become if one were to start. According to the map, London will see a risk of “very high” wildfire severity from Tuesday (July 28) through until Sunday (August 2). However, Wednesday will see the severity upgraded to “exceptionally high” in parts of the capital, including in Bromley, Croydon, Dartford, Erith, and Thamesmead. The Met Office is forecasting highs of 33C on Wednesday, before temperatures will drop to around 27C on Thursday and 25C on Friday. Parts of Essex and Kent that neighbour London, such as Maidstone, Gravesend, Chatham, Basildon, and Billericay, will also see their wildfire severity threat upgraded to exceptional. Popular seaside spots like Margate and Whitstable will also see an “exceptionally high” wildfire threat, as will large parts of Suffolk between Framlingham and Thetford. London’s parks and open spaces have turned to tinderboxes, as the capital experiences one of its longest spells without significant rain. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said that “climate crisis is having a devastating impact on our environment”, adding that wildfires in Europe were “posing a genuine threat to life.” Read More“This isn’t a faraway issue, it’s on our doorstep right now,” the statement added. Three separate grass fires broke out across London in Enfield, Bexley, and Erith on Monday, resulting in nearly four hectares being burnt in one evening. According to the map, Bexley and Erith will both see wildfire severity upgraded to “exceptional” this week. It comes just weeks after a spate of wildfires across the capital in Walthamstow, Stratford, Dagenham.Across the UK, around 19 wildfires broke out simultaneously during the height of the third heatwave in mid-July. The London Fire Brigade has issued multiple warnings against having barbecues in open spaces and public parks because of the extremely dry conditions. The brigade has also provided guidance on creating fire breaks around properties and keeping lawns short. Local fire and rescue services are now said to be preparing for the elevated risk of wildfires in the UK, said a spokesperson for the National Fire Chiefs Council.The Fire Severity Index evaluates the severity of wildfire based on rainfall, temperature, and humidity. It does not include the chances of wildfire occurring. The majority of wildfires are caused by human behaviour, whether deliberately or accidentally, though some can occur naturally.