A helicopter has been deployed to assist firefighters who are spending a third day tackling a major wildfire in the Cairngorms, prompting evacuations of homes, campsites, and ski resorts.
Fire origin and spread
The fire ignited in heathland at Ryvoan Bothy, near Nethy Bridge, late on Wednesday morning and expanded to cover an area of approximately six kilometres by Thursday afternoon. The RSPB reported that around 300 hectares of land have been burnt so far.
Firefighters worked through the night on Thursday, and six fire engines along with specialist resources remained at the scene on Friday morning. A strict cordon remains in place, and the public has been advised not to travel to the area or attempt to access Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich, or the surrounding areas while firefighting operations continue.
Evacuations and closures
Several homes and businesses, including campsites and ski resorts in the Glenmore Forest Park area, have been closed and evacuated as a precaution. There have been no reports of casualties.
Response and resources
Gavin Miles, director of planning and place at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “Emergency services are on the scene and they’re working tirelessly with colleagues from NGOs, local estates and other gamekeepers to put the fire out. There’s also a helicopter now on the scene dropping water on the fire, which is going to help. The most important thing we can do is let the people on the ground do their job.”
Firefighters described the incident as “protracted” but confirmed they have “adequate resources” to manage the situation. Scotland’s Justice Secretary Neil Gray, who holds responsibility for resilience, stated on Thursday that the fire has been contained. He said: “This wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park is currently contained thanks to the exceptional work of firefighters who have been on the scene since Wednesday morning. Public safety is the priority, which is why the decision to evacuate a campsite and various properties has been taken as a precautionary measure.”
Partner agencies and community support
Lynne Gow, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service area commander based in the Highlands, said: “I would agree that we have adequate resources. We’re absolutely certain of our practical plan here.” The RSPB reported that 27 of its staff and volunteers were assisting earlier in the week, using all-terrain vehicles with water bowsers, backpack hoses, and shovels.
Fire service deputy assistant chief officer Ian McMeekin said: “This remains a protracted incident, and I want to thank our firefighters for their continued commitment and determination in challenging conditions. I would also like to thank our partner agencies, landowners and local organisations whose support has been invaluable throughout this response. The safety of our communities remains our priority, and we will continue to assess the need for any further evacuations alongside multi-agency partners as the incident progresses.”
Wildfire risk warnings
The blaze occurs as parts of Scotland face a very high risk of wildfire over the coming days. The fire service, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum, has issued wildfire warnings for the central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland, effective from Wednesday until Monday. The warnings follow several days of hot and dry weather.
Elsewhere, firefighters are tackling a wildfire at Fauldhouse Moor in West Lothian, with two fire engines remaining at the scene on Friday morning after being called at 5.52pm on Thursday. No casualties have been reported.
