Emergency Alert Issued
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Natural England have declared an ‘exceptional’ wildfire risk for large parts of West Sussex, including Arundel, Bognor Regis, Selsey, and Chichester. The warning, which marks the highest level on the national Fire Severity Index (FSI), comes as the region grapples with a sustained period of extreme heat and dry conditions.
The alert follows a series of recent emergency callouts across the county. Fire crews have been deployed to multiple incidents, including a significant grass fire on the South Downs near Eastbourne, a field fire in Nutbourne, and a verge fire along the A27 near Boxgrove, which temporarily disrupted traffic flow.
Conditions and Response
The Fire Severity Index measures the potential intensity and spread rate of a fire if one were to ignite. With the current ‘exceptional’ rating, officials warn that any spark—whether from a discarded cigarette, a bonfire, or an unattended barbecue—could lead to rapidly spreading wildfires that threaten rural landscapes and public safety.
Nathan Cross, Head of Prevention at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, emphasized the gravity of the situation: “We know that people will want to enjoy this exceptionally warm weather… However, it is important that this is done safely as during periods of dry and sustained warm weather, the chance of wildfires spreading rapidly is high.”
Record-Breaking Climate Context
This warning coincides with a summer of historic temperature extremes. According to the Met Office, 2026 has become the first year to record temperatures of 35C on six separate days, and the first to experience such extreme heat across three different calendar months. Dave Swallow, the National Fire Chiefs Council’s wildfire deputy lead, noted that these persistent, hot, and sunny conditions “significantly increase wildfire risk” across the entire South East of England.
Emergency services are urging residents to exercise extreme caution. Advice includes avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in open spaces, ensuring all cigarettes are extinguished completely, and reporting any signs of smoke immediately by calling 999. Authorities also reminded the public to remain vigilant around water, as heatwaves often lead to an increase in dangerous swimming activities.