Millions startled by emergency alert with wildfire warning after UK blazes

An emergency alert was issued amid the fifth heatwave (Picture: Annabel Lee-Ellis/PA Wire)

Millions were sent into panic tonight as an emergency alert appeared unexpectedly on their phones.

At around 7pm, people across England and Wales received a notification, warning against lighting anything that could spark a wildfire, including barbecues, campfires, and fireworks.

It read: ‘There is a very high risk of wildfires nationally. Residents, landowners and visitors should not undertake any activity that could start a fire, including disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks.

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