Wildfire Warning Issued As Hot, Dry Weather Raises Fire Risk Across Sussex

Residents across Sussex are being urged to take extra care outdoors as emergency services warn the risk of wildfires remains high following weeks of hot, dry weather.

The warning comes after the Environment Agency confirmed that Kent and East Sussex are now officially in a period of prolonged dry weather, leaving grassland, heathland and woodland particularly vulnerable to fire.

Fire services across Sussex, Surrey and Kent are encouraging people to take simple precautions to help prevent fires from starting.

Matt Gamblen, Wildfires Tactical Advisor at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said:

"By taking a few simple precautions, residents can help protect their communities, local wildlife and our firefighters."

The service is advising people not to use disposable barbecues in open spaces, to take litter home, fully extinguish cigarettes and smoking materials, avoid parking on dry grass, and keep garden waste away from combustible materials.

Matt added that it only takes a "small spark" to ignite a wildfire and warned it is "not possible to predict exactly where or when a wildfire may occur".

Sussex has already experienced several wildfires this month, including blazes at Ashdown Forest, which inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories, and Abbot's Wood near Polegate.

Other fires have broken out on the South Downs, including incidents near Eastbourne and at Devil's Dyke.

Across the South East, Surrey has also dealt with significant wildfires, while Kent firefighters have tackled grass fires in Sittingbourne, Faversham, Maidstone and Canterbury over the past week.

National figures published by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) show fire and rescue services in England and Wales have responded to 706 wildfires so far in 2026.

Although that's fewer than the 788 recorded by the same point last year, more than 200 incidents were attended in just 12 days between 16 and 28 July.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said:

"More than 200 wildfires in just 12 days shows how quickly the risk can escalate when hot, dry conditions take hold."

Emergency services are urging everyone to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire immediately.