Parts of England experienced temperatures reaching up to 29C today as firefighters faced resource challenges during the ongoing heatwave.
The Met Office predicted patchy clouds with light rain in the north, including some showers in Scotland. Despite this, warm temperatures will persist, particularly in England and Wales. London is expected to reach highs of 30C while Cardiff will be slightly cooler at 29C.
Firefighters from various regions traveled to tackle a significant wildfire in Holt Heath, Dorset, emphasizing the need for more firefighting resources. The Fire Brigades Union assistant general secretary, Ben Selby, highlighted the impact of 14 years of austerity on fire services, leading to a reduction in firefighter posts and operational resources.
The intensity and frequency of wildfires are increasing due to the climate emergency, requiring a substantial number of firefighters and specialized equipment. Fire crews from multiple areas, including Merseyside, South Wales, and Greater Manchester, among others, supported local emergency services in addressing the Holt Heath wildfire.
Yellow weather warnings remain in effect for several regions in the UK until August 18, including Yorkshire, the Midlands, London, and the South East. The upcoming weekend is expected to be dry and sunny, with temperatures around 30C on Saturday and 29C on Sunday in southwest England.
The soaring temperatures have led to a rise in vehicle breakdowns, predominantly due to hot tires failing. The RAC reported a 10% increase in callouts this week compared to the previous week, with faulty tires being a primary issue. Drivers are advised to take precautions, especially checking tire pressure and condition before long journeys to prevent breakdowns, particularly in hot weather.
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