Extreme Heat: Andy Burnham Chairs Emergency Cobra Meeting 2026

Extreme heat has prompted an emergency Cobra meeting chaired by Andy Burnham, as the UK faces record temperatures and widespread wildfires. The prime minister will convene ministers, officials, and agencies to address the escalating crisis, with forecasts of 33°C on Wednesday and up to 38°C on Thursday. This marks the second Cobra meeting on heatwaves this year, following a similar session in June.

Record-Breaking Heat and Wildfire Risk

The UK has now experienced its fifth heatwave of the summer, with the number of days reaching 30°C hitting a new record of 35 days so far, surpassing the previous high of 34 days set in 1995, according to the Met Office. The combination of wet winters and prolonged heatwaves has exacerbated the risk of wildfires, creating the most widespread "fire wave" on record.

Andy Burnham's Call for Action

Speaking before the Cobra meeting, Burnham raised the possibility of banning disposable barbecues, which are a known fire hazard. "There is obviously a significant problem of wildfires in the south," he said. "Many of them have been created by disposable barbecues." He emphasized the need for a clear public message: "People should not be using those barbecues outside at this moment in time."

Impact on Firefighters, Farmers, and NHS

A No 10 spokesperson acknowledged that firefighters, farmers, and NHS staff are all facing challenges connected to the weather. The extreme heat has strained emergency services, threatened agricultural yields, and increased hospital admissions due to heat-related illnesses. The government is under pressure to implement more ambitious measures, with some Labour MPs concerned that the UK is lagging in climate adaptation.

Comparison of Heatwave Records

Key Takeaways

• Emergency Cobra meeting chaired by Andy Burnham to coordinate response to extreme heat.
• UK sets new record for days above 30°C, with 35 days so far.
• Disposable barbecues identified as a major cause of wildfires.
• Government urged to take stronger action on climate resilience.

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