Cairngorms wildfire incident
A major wildfire incident within the Cairngorms National Park continues to impact communities across the north-east of Scotland, with smoke now travelling far beyond the immediate fire zone due to changing weather conditions.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has warned that residents and businesses in eastern Aviemore, across Deeside, Inverurie, Kintore, Banchory and surrounding areas, and as far as Aberdeen, may continue to see and smell smoke throughout the weekend.
The incident, which has now been declared a major incident in the Aviemore area, remains dynamic and unpredictable across a vast and complex landscape. Fire crews, specialist wildfire teams, helicopters carrying out water-bombing operations and partner agencies are working around the clock to contain hotspots and prevent further spread across a vast and challenging landscape.
Aberdeenshire Council is urging residents and visitors to support the clear advice from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service:
Please do not travel through smoke-affected areas unless your journey is completely essential.
Smoke can significantly reduce visibility on roads, creating hazardous driving conditions and increasing the risk of collisions. Conditions can change rapidly as wind direction shifts, causing smoke to spread unexpectedly and creating new flare-ups.
For those living in areas affected by smoke:
• Keep windows and doors closed as a precaution
• Limit time outdoors where smoke is visible or air quality is poor
• Take extra care if you have asthma, COPD, heart conditions, are pregnant, elderly or have young children, as smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen existing health conditions
• If driving is unavoidable, keep vehicle windows closed and use air re-circulation settings where possible
The public is also being asked to stay well away from affected areas of the Cairngorms National Park. Emergency services continue to report attempts by people to enter restricted locations despite closures being in place. These measures exist to protect public safety and to allow firefighters to work efficiently without additional risk or distraction.
We would also highlight that the smoke and fire-fighting operations my necessitate the need for emergency road closures over the weekend and ask that all motorists comply with any road closure instructions and diversions.
Despite clear warning signs, some road closures and emergency service cordons, reports continue to be received of people attempting to enter restricted areas while firefighting operations remain ongoing. This can place both the public and responders at unnecessary risk and can hinder critical wildfire response efforts.
This wildfire serves as a stark reminder of the growing risks posed by prolonged dry conditions and changing weather patterns. By following official guidance, avoiding non-essential travel through smoke-affected areas and respecting all closures and restrictions, we can all play our part in helping emergency responders protect lives, property and one of Scotland's most treasured landscapes.
Residents are encouraged to follow Scottish Fire and Rescue Service social media channels for the latest updates and safety information:
https://www.facebook.com/firescot