London, Europe Brief News – At least 10 separate blazes were reported on UK’s hottest-ever day, as London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the situation “critical”.
Residents were evacuated, people were taken to hospital and a major incident was declared by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) which was “under immense pressure” after a “huge surge” in blazes across the capital as temperatures topped 40C (104F) for the first time.
Mayor Sadiq Khan described the situation as “critical” and said people should not be having barbecues anywhere in London today and tomorrow, including in parks and private gardens, as well as on patios and balconies.
“It’s not about us being the nanny state or party poopers, it’s the reality of accidents happening and fires starting and spreading rapidly, in your garden, decking, homes and so forth,” he said, adding people should not be “wild swimming” during the heatwave.
Khan also said that on a normal day, the London fire service receives a total of 300-350 calls for help, but today they had more than 1,600 by late afternoon.
Dozens of fire engines and hundreds of firefighters have been involved in tackling the blazes.
