British officials are being urged to consider stricter regulations and harsher penalties on activities such as lighting bonfires and using disposable barbecues during periods of drought, amid a growing risk of wildfires across the country. The call comes as fires continue to spread in several areas, including a significant blaze at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk.

Professor Nigel Arnell, a senior scientist at the University of Reading’s meteorology department, highlighted the increasing frequency and severity of such incidents, attributing the trend to the impacts of climate change. He noted that events like the recent large fire in Suffolk would have been seen as highly unusual in previous decades but are becoming more common due to hotter and drier summers.

Arnell’s research projects a substantial rise in the number of days with “very high” fire danger, especially in the south and east of England. Currently, these conditions occur about 20 days per year, but by 2080, the figure could exceed 100 days annually. Additionally, “exceptional danger” days—previously a rarity occurring once every 50 to 100 years—could start happening nearly every other year under future climate scenarios.

Between July 16 and 28, over 200 wildfires were recorded across England and Wales, according to the National Fire Chiefs Council. Most of these outbreaks are linked to human activities, including discarded cigarettes, barbecues, the use of machinery, uncontrolled burns, or deliberate ignition.

At present, the UK does not have a singular law that automatically prohibits bonfires or disposable barbecues solely based on drought declarations. Arnell emphasized the potential benefits of introducing such legislation, alongside enhanced public education campaigns to raise awareness about the risks. “People are still lighting bonfires during these dry spells,” he said, adding that many may not fully appreciate the danger.

The combination of legislative action and community engagement could help mitigate the increased risk of wildfires as climate conditions evolve, according to experts. However, details on any forthcoming government responses or proposals have not yet been announced.