Fires prompt national alert as 19 homes destroyed

Fires sweeping across England and Wales have prompted a national government alert, warning citizens to refrain from any activities that could ignite wildfires. The warning was issued on Friday evening in the wake of a devastating blaze in Stourbridge, West Midlands, where 19 homes were destroyed and 18 more were damaged. Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged the public to take the alert seriously, stating it was requested by firefighters.

West Midlands Fire Service chief Simon Tuhill described the Stourbridge fire as one of the most significant incidents his service had ever encountered.

The flames spread rapidly through grass and woodland before damaging homes, prompting the immediate declaration of a major incident near Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, in Wales. There, dozens of homes were evacuated and roads were closed. In Hampshire, firefighters battled a wildfire in the New Forest for a sixth day, while Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service dealt with 16 emergencies, including a fire at Mousehold Heath.

Arson charges were filed in several locations, including Hampshire where four 14-year-olds were arrested on suspicion of arson and later released on bail. In Willenhall, West Midlands, at least three homes and several gardens were destroyed, with two people arrested on suspicion of arson. The Prime Minister visited Stourbridge, describing the scene as "devastating," and promised additional support for emergency services.

A temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues was announced, as they were responsible for several serious fires this summer.

Residents living in the affected areas were evacuated, with some, like 55-year-old Mike Davis, evacuated alongside his family. He described the scene as filled with thick smoke and unprecedented conditions. Jane Baxter, whose home bordered a golf course, had only minutes to gather essential belongings before being told to evacuate.

The Sugarloaf Equestrian Centre also faced the threat of the fire, with staff quickly rescuing horses as flames approached. Two people were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, and firefighters across the West Midlands sustained injuries as well.