London train station closed as firefighters tackle blaze amid warning over ‘extreme’ wildfire risk
Stratford Station was forced to close after firefighters were called to a blaze near the railway line as the London Fire Brigade (LFB) issued a stark warning about “extreme” bushfire risks in the capital this weekend.
LFB confirmed its crew arrived at the scene on Friday evening to respond to social media videos showing flames near train tracks. A post from LFB on
The incident caused serious disruption, with Transport for London reporting serious delays on the Elizabeth, Mildmay and Jubilee lines.
The fire comes as the LFB reiterated the increased danger of bushfires during the ongoing heatwave. Latest assessments show the risk in London will rise from ‘high’ to ‘extreme’ between Saturday and Monday due to prolonged dry weather, high temperatures and wind speeds.
LFB deputy commissioner Tom Goodall urged Londoners to act responsibly.
He said: “We want everyone in the city to enjoy the ongoing heatwave, but this needs to be done responsibly. “The latest bushfire risk assessment shows grass fires, if they do break out, have a higher chance of spreading more quickly due to weather conditions.
As many parks and open spaces in London are close to properties and communities, it is vital that the public is as careful as possible to prevent these fires from starting. We have seen first-hand how devastating the impact of fires can be on livelihoods, both in London and around the world.
“This means no disposable barbecues in parks and open spaces, taking rubbish home if there’s no bin and ensuring your cigarettes are disposed of appropriately. If you’re barbecuing at home, make sure it’s on level ground and away from pavements, fences, trees and balconies.”
Temperatures in the UK will reach 35C or above on six separate days in 2026, a new record, the Met Office revealed on Friday.
