Smoke from the ongoing wildfire in Cairngorms National Park has drifted as far as Aberdeen as weather conditions change.
The fire service said residents in the east of Aviemore as well as in Aberdeenshire may see or smell smoke on Friday and going into the weekend.
Hazy smoke reached Aberdeen more than 50 miles away, with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service advising residents to keep doors and windows closed as a precaution.
Wildfire Details
The wildfire, which broke out near the village of Glenmore on Wednesday last week, led to residents and campsites being evacuated. It covered an area of about six square kilometres of heather and small trees at its height.
More than 100 firefighters have been mobilised to the incident alongside specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles and partner agencies. The fire service said on Friday that the incident “remains dynamic and unpredictable”.
Earlier, walkers and visitors were urged to stay away from the affected area as “substantial hotspots remain”.
Official Statement
Deputy assistant chief officer Michael Humphreys said: “Our crews and specialist resources remain at the scene of the wildfire within the Cairngorms National Park.
“Progress is being made; however, wildfires can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
“The situation on the ground remains dynamic and continues to be influenced by changing weather conditions, particularly wind strength and direction.
“Wind changes often cause flare-ups, fire spread, and smoke to change direction, as we are witnessing today and over the past 24 hours.
“Our wildfire tactical advisors are continually monitoring conditions.
“We remain in attendance along with partner agencies to dampen down hot spots and prevent further fire spread, supported by ongoing helicopter water-bombing operations.”
He said the incident had been “appropriately and proportionately resourced throughout”.
