Devastating images taken by firefighters on the frontline have revealed the horrifying aftermath of the wildfire that ripped through the Cairngorms for more than a week.
Emergency crews were first called out to the blaze on heathland near Ryvoan Bothy on Wednesday, July 15, before it spread across much of the Glenmore, Abernethy and Loch Morlich areas.
A huge area of the national park has been devastated by the inferno, which is thankfully now under control. At its peak, the fire stretched to around 6km long and has covered more than 4km2.
Images show blackened landscape
Images taken from the scene show the now blackened landscape as the impact becomes clear. Trees have been left scarred by the flames while large areas of grass, heather and peat have been reduced to piles of ash.
Large chunks of forest have also been cleared by the fire after it destroyed almost everything in their path.
Members of the public are still being warned to stay away from the area as crews from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, alongside partner organisations and officers from Police Scotland, remain on scene damping down hotspots.
Ongoing operations and closures
Several paths around the area remain closed with no access to the public while operations including helicopter water-bombing and ground-based activity continue. Roads in the area are also closed.
Firefighters are expected to remain on the scene for a number of days yet as they continue to tackle remaining pockets of fire, prevent reignition and monitor conditions.
In an update posted last night, Cairngorms National Park Authority said: "Overnight, fire crews, estate staff and volunteers have been on the scene of the fire, carefully monitoring the site for hot spots and dampening down in Glenmore and near Lochan Uaine (Green Lochan) to control and prevent further flare ups."
"Since 10am today, two helicopters have been dropping water, guided by information from thermal drones at the scene. Helicopters are likely to remain in place tomorrow and potentially into the weekend."
"This continues to be a live situation. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland are responsible for making decisions on the ground and will confirm when it is safe for people to access the Glenmore, Abernethy and Loch Morlich areas again."
"Our current understanding is that restrictions to the area are unlikely to be lifted before next week, but we will continue to keep you updated as the situation develops."
"Although this specific area is restricted, the Cairngorms is the UK’s largest national park and the surrounding towns, villages and businesses in the area - including Aviemore - remain open and ready to welcome visitors. We remain incredibly grateful to all those who continue to work day and night to protect the National Park."
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys added: “Our firefighters, specialist resources and partners have worked tirelessly over the past week in challenging conditions, and we continue to make good progress. While the overall situation is improving, there are still substantial hotspots burning across a large and complex landscape. These hotspots continue to require intensive firefighting efforts, both on the ground and from the air, and crews will remain on scene into next week.
“We are asking members of the public to continue staying away from the affected areas while these operations remain ongoing. This allows firefighters and partners to work safely and effectively, reduces unnecessary impact on the emergency services, and helps protect the public from potential hazards.”
