An emergency alert was sent to millions of phones across England and Wales from about 7pm, warning people not to light barbecues, campfires or fireworks and to report fires immediately by calling 999. The government acted as firefighters tackled major wildfires, including a blaze in Stourbridge in the West Midlands where 19 homes were destroyed, highlighting the risks posed by hot, dry conditions.

Ministers said the military had been called in, a ban on disposable barbecues announced, and firefighting aircraft would be commissioned to help contain future blazes. The alert was reportedly the system’s most extensive use to date, but it also disrupted television broadcasts, concerts and public transport, while critics argued its broad use caused unnecessary alarm in places facing no immediate danger.