Aviemore is no longer in the immediately affected area of the Cairngorms wildfire, according to Gavin Miles, director of planning and place at Cairngorms National Park. The fire, which started late Wednesday morning in heathland at Ryvoan Bothy near Nethy Bridge, has burned approximately four square kilometres of ground. Firefighters have made significant progress, but a strong northerly wind is blowing smoke south over the Central Cairngorm Mountains, posing health risks.
Firefighting Operations Continue
As of Saturday, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has nine fire appliances and specialist resources at the scene, alongside a helicopter conducting water-bombing operations. Water is being pumped from Loch Morlich to support firefighting. Crews are working with landowners and partner agencies to establish firebreaks and contain the spread. Area commander Lynne Gow stated that the helicopter provides additional operational capability across challenging terrain, complementing ground efforts to limit the fire's spread.
No casualties have been reported. The fire has led to the closure and evacuation of homes, businesses, campsites, and ski resorts in Glenmore Forest Park. The C7 road (Ski Road) remains closed at Coylumbridge, and a strict cordon is in place. People are advised to avoid Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich, and surrounding areas while firefighting is ongoing.
Public Health Advisory
Gavin Miles warned that thick smoke could worsen over the weekend. He recommended against accessing the Central Cairngorm Mountains for walking, cycling, or climbing due to health risks and the emergency services' workload. Police Scotland has asked residents to keep windows shut and contact NHS24 if concerned about symptoms.
Justice Secretary Neil Gray, responsible for resilience, met with senior fire service officers on Friday and thanked all involved. He confirmed the Scottish Government is monitoring the situation closely. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth described the fire as a very distressing and challenging time, noting that the fire is currently contained and under control.
Environmental Impact
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reported that around 300 hectares of land have been burnt. The charity expressed concern for young Scots pine, broadleaved trees, invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, and birds. RSPB staff and volunteers have been assisting firefighting efforts with all-terrain vehicles, water bowsers, backpack hoses, and shovels. The cause of the fire and full extent of damage remain unknown.
Other Wildfires in Scotland
Firefighters have also tackled a wildfire at Fauldhouse Moor in West Lothian, with four fire engines remaining on site on Friday afternoon after the alarm was raised at 5:52 pm Thursday. Another blaze at Tentsmuir Forest in Fife involved three fire engines from 12:50 pm Friday. No casualties have been reported in these incidents. The Scottish Wildfire Forum has issued a very high risk warning for the central Highlands, southern, and eastern Scotland, in effect until Monday, following days of hot and dry weather.
