Fire crews remain on site at the Cairngorms wildfire, reporting significant progress over the past 24 hours. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) stated on Saturday evening that six fire appliances, two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), a Wildfire Support Unit, and a water carrier helicopter are currently deployed at the scene.
Fire Origin and Spread
The wildfire ignited late on Wednesday morning in heathland at Ryvoan Bothy, near Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms National Park, northeast Scotland. By Thursday afternoon, it had spread to cover approximately six kilometres. Water-bombing operations are ongoing to contain the blaze.
Improvement in Key Areas
Over the last 24 hours, conditions have improved in areas including Strathnethy on the western and eastern flanks. The SFRS noted that the period between 3:00 PM and 6:30 PM is the most challenging due to warmer temperatures, and it is assessing resource requirements for Sunday.
SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys said: “We hope this update provides reassurance to local residents and communities. However, it is equally important that expectations are managed given the unpredictable nature of wildfire incidents and the ongoing influence of weather conditions. We would like to thank the partnership working of landowners and agencies and our local communities for their continued patience and cooperation throughout this incident.”
Displaced Residents and Exclusion Zone
Police Scotland has advised that people displaced by the fire who need to return to the exclusion zone must register at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort in Aviemore between 10:00 AM and noon on Sunday, or call 01349 886691. Police will contact them when the zone is considered safe to enter.
