More than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded
Firefighters across the West Midlands are tackling hotspots after multiple major fires swept through the region during the UK’s hottest day of the year.
At least 54 people were treated by paramedics following the fires, with 19 taken to hospital, according to West Midlands Ambulance Service.
The worst damage was reported in Stourbridge, where more than 100 firefighters battled a large grass fire near Stourbridge Golf Club.
The blaze spread across more than 500 acres, destroying 19 homes and damaging a further 18 properties.
Residents were forced to evacuate as flames spread rapidly through tinder-dry vegetation and nearby residential areas.
West Midlands Fire Service declared a major incident as crews worked through extremely challenging conditions.
One firefighter was taken to hospital and later discharged, while five others suffered minor injuries, including smoke inhalation.
Six members of the public were also treated for smoke inhalation, while a child was taken to hospital.
On August 14, firefighters continued damping down affected areas and tackling remaining hotspots.
Residents in some parts of Stourbridge were warned they could remain away from their homes for several days.
Further fires caused significant damage across Birmingham and the wider region.
In Pershore, Worcestershire, several homes were damaged and around 30 properties were evacuated.
Around 200 properties were also left without power, while one person received treatment for smoke inhalation.
In Stoke-on-Trent, four homes were destroyed by a fire in the Goldenhill area.
A man and woman were arrested on suspicion of arson, according to Staffordshire Police.
Six firefighters were later taken to hospital after suffering smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion while tackling fires across Staffordshire.
A major incident was also declared in Warwickshire following a large fire in Salford Priors, near Stratford-upon-Avon.
In Birmingham, fires affected several residential areas, including Castle Vale, Willenhall, Kings Norton, Druids Heath and Highters Heath.
Homes in Castle Vale were badly damaged, with part of one building’s roof collapsing.
A woman suffered serious injuries, and a man was also taken to hospital following the incident.
Three homes and several gardens were destroyed in Willenhall.
Meanwhile, a man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a fire in Kings Norton.
Highters Heath was also badly affected, with several terraced homes catching fire.
Andrew Reynolds said his mother’s home was destroyed in the blaze, leaving his family without treasured belongings.
He said the family had lost everything, including around 100 years of family photographs.
Residents described the experience as terrifying as fires spread rapidly through dry grass and surrounding properties.
The extreme heat has been identified as a major factor behind the rapid spread of the fires.
Temperatures reached 38°C in Pershore, Worcestershire, on Thursday, according to Met Office figures.
West Midlands Fire Service warned people against using fireworks, disposable barbecues or burning waste during the dry conditions.
It also urged people to dispose of cigarettes safely and remain cautious around glass objects.
Wildfire researcher Dr Kerryn Little said vegetation in urban areas had contributed to the Midlands’ vulnerability.
She explained that high numbers of people moving through areas can increase the risk of accidental ignitions.
When fires meet large areas of dry, continuous vegetation, they can spread rapidly.
More than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded across England and Wales this year, according to National Fire Chiefs Council data.
Fire services are continuing to monitor conditions as hot and dry weather increases the risk of further fires.
Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious and follow fire safety advice while crews continue responding to incidents across the region.
