VIDEO: Emergency alert sounds during live BBC broadcasts - 14th August 2026

The UK's emergency alert system was activated in England and Wales just after 7pm this evening (14th August). Phones made a loud siren-like sound with the following message:

"There is a very high risk of wildfires nationally. Residents, landowners and visitors should not undertake any activity that could start a fire, including disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks. Even a small flame can rapidly develop into a major wildfire placing lives, homes, businesses and emergency responders at risk."

The alert noise was heard live on BBC One, BBC Two and BBC News:

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/78f3fe_068367f6910841318f93c35869b7c652/1080p/mp4/file.mp4