Fire crews have made 'really significant progress' in tackling a large-scale wildfire burning in the Cairngorms, according to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). The wildfire, which started near Ryvoan Bothy, south of Nethy Bridge, on Wednesday, has been covered in an area of approximately six square kilometres.
More than 100 firefighters have been involved in the operation to control and extinguish the blaze. The SFRS has worked to 'get on top' of the fire thanks to favourable weather conditions on Saturday. However, the fire service warned that the response could change depending on the severity of the temperature and wind.
The fire has resulted in the evacuation of homes and businesses, including campsites and a ski resort in the Glenmore Forest Park area. A high volume pump has been used to draw water from Loch Morlich to support firefighting efforts. The SFRS has also been working with Forestry Scotland and Land and Estates Scotland to plan their response around the area's 'difficult and inaccessible' geography.
Jon Henderson, SFRS assistant chief officer, praised the efforts of the firefighting teams, stating that the conditions have been 'very, very favourable' and have allowed them to 'really start to attack the fire in earnest'.
The SFRS has warned that wildfire risks across parts of Scotland will remain at a very high level for the foreseeable future. The Cairngorms National Park Authority has also issued a warning, stating that visitors and locals are welcome to come and enjoy the park while being aware of the high risk of wildfires.