Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to chair an emergency Cobra committee meeting as the UK faces its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to reach 38°C. The meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, comes amid growing concerns over the impact of extreme heat on public safety and the environment. Officials and agencies will gather to assess the situation, including the risk of wildfires that have been reported across the country.
Burnham has called for a temporary pause in the sale of disposable barbecues, citing the dangers posed by the rising temperatures. The decision follows a Cobra meeting where ministers and experts discussed the escalating heatwave and its effects on infrastructure and health. Officials warned that the prolonged period of extreme weather could lead to increased emergency calls and strain on services.
The government is also preparing for a surge in public demand for cooling solutions, with reports indicating that many areas are experiencing record-breaking temperatures. While the focus remains on managing the immediate crisis, officials are urging residents to take precautions and stay hydrated. The Cobra meeting will aim to coordinate a national response to the ongoing heatwave and its associated risks.
