Multiple wildfires tore through parts of central England on Thursday, damaging homes, forcing evacuations and prompting a major emergency response across the West Midlands and Warwickshire. One of the most destructive fires developed near Racecourse Lane in Stourbridge, where flames spread rapidly across grassland, woodland and residential areas. West Midlands Fire Service said six properties were affected as the fire expanded across an estimated 40 acres. Around 60 firefighters were deployed to the incident, while a child was taken to hospital and three firefighters also required medical treatment.

A separate major incident was declared in Salford Priors, within the Stratford-on-Avon district of Warwickshire, after another wildfire spread toward nearby outbuildings. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service deployed 10 fire appliances and urged residents to remain indoors, close doors and windows and avoid the area as crews worked to contain the blaze. Smoke later affected the nearby A46, forcing authorities to close part of the road while emergency operations continued. Police and ambulance personnel were also deployed alongside firefighters.

The fires erupted as Britain experienced some of its most extreme temperatures of the year. The Met Office recorded a provisional high of 38.1 degrees Celsius at Kew Gardens in London, making Thursday the fifth-hottest day recorded in the United Kingdom. Pershore in Worcestershire reached 38 degrees, while 40 locations across central and southern England recorded temperatures of at least 36 degrees. The Met Office said the country has now recorded four days at or above 36 degrees in 2026, the highest number documented in a single year.

Fire officials have warned that prolonged heat and exceptionally dry vegetation have created conditions allowing grass and woodland fires to spread rapidly into populated areas. Investigations into the origins of the Stourbridge and Warwickshire fires remained underway Thursday evening as crews continued monitoring hotspots and assessing damage. The immediate priority remained containing remaining fire activity, protecting nearby properties and allowing displaced residents to return safely once conditions permit.