Prince William says UK faces terrifying risk of more wildfires due to climate change

Prince William has warned that climate change creates a “terrifying prospect” of more severe wildfires in the UK, and said better preparation will be crucial. During a visit to Treherbert, he praised the firefighters, military personnel and volunteers who helped protect the village, and called for wildfires to be taken as seriously as they are in continental Europe.

The August fire came within metres of homes and a community centre, amid a season when South Wales Fire and Rescue Service responded to 14 wildfires at once. Support came from 22 other fire services, and soldiers helped deliver 2.1 million litres of water and dig fire breaks. National Fire Chiefs Council figures recorded 1,350 significant wildfires across England and Wales in 2026, more than 300 above 2025; William also highlighted a shortage of firefighting aircraft.