Urban wildfire risk rising due to hot dry summers, scientists warn

Published: 8/14/2025
Urban wildfire risk rising due to hot dry summers, scientists warn
"Firewaves" pose new risks to UK cities due to hot, dry summers exacerbated by climate change, warn scientists. The term refers to urban wildfires triggered by prolonged periods of high temperatures and low humidity. Imperial College London researchers, led by Prof. Guillermo Rein, suggest that London could face a "firewave" this weekend due to extremely dry conditions promoting wildfire outbreaks. With climate change fueling these risks, proactive measures and new technologies like drones are being adopted by emergency services like the London Fire Brigade to tackle the growing threat and protect communities.