UK firefighters out in force to tackle fires on hottest day of the year
LONDON (AP) -- Firefighters were tackling multiple fires in central England on Thursday after the U.K. recorded its hottest day of the year as an inte
Firefighters in central England responded to multiple wildfires on Thursday, as the UK recorded its hottest day of the year. The intense heat has gripped Europe, with France experiencing temperatures approaching 41 C in several areas. Wildfires have burned several houses in the West Midlands, with one incident resulting in a child and three firefighters being hospitalized.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker described the situation as extremely worrying and fast-moving. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged support for the region's fire and rescue services. The cause of the wildfires has not been determined, and they are expected to take days to extinguish. This summer has seen record-breaking temperatures in both Britain and France, with 2026 on track to match the record from 2022.
The extreme heat has exacerbated drought conditions, leading to widespread crop damage and strained water resources. Authorities across Europe remain on high alert for wildfires, as land remains parched and no rain is in sight.
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