Wildfire and water warning as London braces for first heatwave of the year

London Fire Brigade has issued safety advice ahead of what could be the capital's first heatwave of 2026, with forecasters predicting temperatures above 30°C.

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow heat health alert for London covering the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

The Natural Hazards Partnership has assessed a heightened wildfire risk across London over the bank holiday and the half-term school holidays.

The Brigade says a wet winter followed by one of the driest Aprils on record has left vegetation dry and primed to burn.

Residents are urged to avoid disposable barbecues, which are banned in many London parks, and to dispose of cigarettes carefully.

For barbecues at home, the Brigade advises siting them on level ground away from fences, sheds and trees, and never on balconies or decking.

The City of London Corporation is asking visitors to its open spaces, including Epping Forest, not to light fires or barbecues of any kind and to take litter home.

On water safety, the Brigade warns that most inland water in London stays below 16°C even in hot weather, posing a risk of cold water shock and drowning.

Brigade figures show 40% of water-related incidents happen between May and August, and 103 people have drowned accidentally in London over the past five years.

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in water is urged not to enter themselves, but to call 999 and throw the person something that floats.