'Significant hot spots' remain at Cairngorms wildfire

A wildfire has been burning in the Cairngorms for over a week, affecting approximately 10 square kilometres of land. The blaze began near Ryvoan Bothy, located south of Nethy Bridge, and has since drawn a large firefighting response. More than 100 firefighters have been engaged in efforts to combat the fire, which the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported last Sunday as being effectively “surrounded.” Despite this containment, the fire service warns that several significant hotspots remain, and crews will continue working on-site to fully secure the area.

The terrain in the affected region has posed considerable challenges due to its steepness and inaccessibility. Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson highlighted the persistence and strategic efforts of the firefighters, noting their collaboration with landowners and partner agencies to create and maintain fire breaks. These measures are aimed at stopping the fire’s spread, minimizing damage, and safeguarding infrastructure. Henderson emphasized that, although progress has been made, the situation remains active and emergency personnel will stay until it is deemed safe. He also appealed to the public to avoid the site, respect road closures, and adhere to all safety guidance.

A strict perimeter has been established around the affected region, restricting access to Glenmore Forest Park and Loch Morlich for both vehicles and pedestrians. Evacuations have been carried out for nearby homes, businesses, campsites, and a ski resort as a precaution. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service continues to issue a “very high risk” wildfire warning for the central Highlands as well as eastern and southern Scotland, which remains valid until Friday.

First Minister John Swinney visited the scene to recognize the combined efforts involved in managing the wildfire. He praised the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service along with local land managers, the RSPB, Cairngorms National Park, and Forestry and Land Scotland for their teamwork. Swinney stressed the importance of coordinated action to ensure the necessary skills, resources, and expertise are applied to protect Scotland’s natural landscapes. Assistant Chief Officer Henderson also urged the public to remain vigilant outdoors, advising against lighting campfires, using disposable barbecues, or creating any open flames near dry vegetation, as even a small spark can ignite a rapidly spreading wildfire with severe consequences for communities and wildlife

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