A fire rapidly spread across an area of tinder-dry grassland in Eastwood yesterday afternoon, as the continued lack of rain leaves parks and open spaces particularly vulnerable to fires.
The blaze broke out in Eastwood Scotts Park at around 5.40pm on Sunday 9 August. A local resident spotted the flames and raised the alarm, with firefighters arriving around ten minutes later.
Fire crews tackled the fire and managed to prevent it spreading further across the park.
The incident comes as prolonged hot and dry conditions continue to increase the risk of grass and wildfires. Dry vegetation can allow even a relatively small fire to spread extremely quickly, particularly when combined with wind.
Firefighters have already dealt with a number of significant grass, heathland and crop fires across Essex this summer, with people urged to avoid bonfires, barbecues and open fires in the countryside and to dispose of cigarettes carefully.
There doesn’t appear to be much meaningful rain on the way just yet. The latest forecast suggests Southend will remain largely dry as temperatures rise again this week, with the heat expected to peak around Wednesday and Thursday.
The wildfire risk will be very high across England on Thursday 13 August, with mid-30s°C temperatures likely in many areas. The high temperatures will further dry out vegetation meaning if a fire does break out, it could spread rapidly and become difficult to contain.