A helicopter has been deployed to support firefighting operations as crews enter a third day battling a major wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park. The blaze, which ignited in heathland at Ryvoan Bothy near Nethy Bridge late Wednesday morning, has spread across an area of approximately six kilometres by Thursday afternoon.
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 precautionary measure. An estimated four square kilometres (1.5 square miles) of ground have been burnt by the fire. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed on Friday that more than 50 firefighters are at the scene, supported by nine fire appliances and specialist resources.
Aerial Support and Firefighting Efforts
A helicopter is conducting water-bombing operations above the blaze, drawing water from Loch Morlich to support ground crews. Area Commander Lynne Gow stated: “The deployment of a helicopter provides an additional operational capability which can be particularly effective across challenging terrain and in areas that are difficult to access. Aerial support complements the extensive work already being undertaken by firefighters and partner agencies on the ground and enhances our ability to limit the spread of fire where conditions allow, as we work to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”
Firefighters are pumping water from Loch Morlich and collaborating with landowners and partner agencies to establish firebreaks and contain the fire’s spread. No casualties have been reported.
Official Statements
Scotland’s Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth described it as a “very distressing and challenging time” in the Cairngorms, adding: “As I understand it, the fire is currently contained. SFRS are keeping that matter under control at the current time.” Justice Secretary Neil Gray, who oversees resilience, said: “This morning I met with senior officers from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to receive the latest update on the wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park. I want to thank everyone involved in tackling this incident for their exceptional dedication and hard work.”
Environmental Impact
The RSPB reported that around 300 hectares of land have been burnt so far. The charity deployed 27 staff and volunteers earlier in the week, using all-terrain vehicles with water bowsers, backpack hoses, and shovels. A strict cordon remains in place, and the public is advised not to travel to the area or attempt to access Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich, or the surrounding area while firefighting operations continue.
Wildfire Warnings
The fire service, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum, has issued wildfire warnings for the central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland. The alert, warning of a very high risk of wildfire, came into force on Wednesday and lasts until Monday, following days of hot and dry weather.
Other Incidents
Firefighters have also tackled a wildfire at Fauldhouse Moor in West Lothian, called to the scene at 5:52 PM on Thursday, with four fire engines remaining on site Friday afternoon. Another blaze at Tentsmuir Forest in Fife prompted three fire engines to respond after the alarm was raised at 12:50 PM on Friday. No casualties have been reported at these incidents.
