Firefighters have successfully brought a substantial grassfire at Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh under control. Six fire engines were deployed to the ancient volcano after the blaze erupted below Salisbury Crags at approximately 6:40 PM on Sunday, 19 July. Plumes of white smoke from the incident were visible from as far away as Fife, highlighting the scale of the fire.
Crews from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) worked through the night to douse the flames and ensure all remaining hotspots were thoroughly dampened. By Monday, while small wisps of smoke could still be observed, the immediate danger had passed, and large areas of vegetation beneath the cliff face were left scorched black. The SFRS confirmed there were no reported casualties during the incident, and personnel have since left the scene.
Police Scotland announced that Queen's Drive, the road encircling the Holyrood Park hills, has now reopened to the public. Authorities have also stated that the fire is not being treated as suspicious, alleviating concerns of deliberate ignition. This recent event marks the second fire at the popular Edinburgh landmark within the last three months, prompting local concern.
Area Commander Davis Dourley of the SFRS reiterated the service's commitment, stating: "Our crews remained on scene until today, working to extinguish remaining hotspots and dampen down the area." He further urged the public to exercise caution, particularly given the prevailing weather conditions.
The incident at Arthur's Seat coincides with an extended "very high risk" wildfire warning issued by the SFRS, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF). This warning, which covers the central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland, has been extended until Friday, 24 July, as warm weather is forecast to persist across the region. The SFRS has advised individuals to remain vigilant and follow outdoor safety guidelines to prevent further fires.