Fire Cases Surge In London Amid Heatwave

London's firefighting authority declared a major incident in the British capital on Tuesday in response to the surge in fires amid a record-breaking heatwave in Britain and Europe.

The London Fire Brigade said it had deployed dozens of fire engines to several fires in and around the city, including thirty to a grass fire in east London. Television footage showed one blaze engulfing several homes.

"Firefighters are still meeting the needs of our communities, but declaring a major incident allows us to focus our resources," the brigade said.

We have declared a major incident as firefighters battle several significant fires across the capital during today's record-breaking heatwave. For the latest on those, follow this account @londonfire https://t.co/1ThCGrc33K pic.twitter.com/Tp4J0l2Zkr

— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) July 19, 2022

Britain recorded its highest ever temperature, breaking 40C (104F) for the first time, as a heatwave gripping Europe intensified, scorching fields and damaging airport runways and train tracks.

"This is critical: @LondonFire is under immense pressure. Please be safe," London Mayor Sadiq Khan said on Twitter,

NEW: London Fire Brigade has just declared a Major Incident in response to a huge surge in fires across the capital today.

This is critical: @LondonFire is under immense pressure. Please be safe.

I'm in touch with the Commissioner and will share updates when I have them.

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) July 19, 2022

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