Cairngorms wildfire continued to test emergency crews on Saturday as firefighters entered the eleventh day of a major operation across the Scottish Highlands. Meanwhile, Cairngorms wildfire remained under close watch after changing weather conditions triggered new flare-ups and complicated containment efforts. Authorities continued deploying extensive resources to protect nearby communities and prevent the fire from spreading further.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that 75 firefighters remained at the scene on Saturday evening. More than 30 heavy machinery operators also supported the response near Nethy Bridge. Crews concentrated on containing the fire and strengthening control lines across the affected landscape.
The wildfire first broke out near Ryvoan Bothy on July 15. Since then, emergency teams have worked around the clock to contain the blaze. However, stronger winds recently caused several dangerous flare-ups. As a result, the fire pushed closer to woodland and nearby homes, forcing firefighters to adjust their strategy and focus on protecting local communities.
Authorities evacuated residents from Nethy Bridge as a precaution after conditions worsened. Emergency services directed evacuees to a temporary respite centre in Aviemore. However, officials later confirmed residents could safely return home after crews reduced the immediate threat. Police Scotland also ended the major incident declaration, although emergency teams continue monitoring the area closely.
Firefighters will remain at the scene until they fully extinguish the blaze. Meanwhile, helicopters continue supporting ground crews by dropping between 20,000 and 40,000 litres of water every hour. At the same time, heavy machinery continues creating fire breaks to slow the flames and shield nearby properties. Officials said those measures significantly reduced the immediate danger. Nevertheless, firefighters continue tackling stubborn hotspots across the affected land.
Smoke from the wildfire continues affecting surrounding areas. Therefore, authorities still advise residents in parts of Aberdeenshire and Moray to keep windows and doors closed. Emergency officials also urged people to stay away from the fire zone, explaining that public cooperation allows crews to operate more safely and efficiently.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service praised the coordinated response involving emergency crews, contractors, gamekeepers, volunteers and partner organisations. Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour thanked everyone supporting the operation and stressed that public safety remains the highest priority. He also confirmed firefighters will maintain a strong operational presence until they safely conclude the incident.
More than 500 firefighters have taken part in the response since the wildfire began. At its peak, the fire covered around six square kilometres of heather and woodland. Although officials confirmed the overall wildfire risk has dropped from very high levels, firefighters still face difficult conditions across the area.
Police Scotland also praised partner agencies and volunteers for their continued efforts. Superintendent Judy Hill thanked emergency workers for their dedication and acknowledged the patience shown by local residents throughout the incident. She also urged the public to continue avoiding the affected area so crews can focus on extinguishing the remaining hotspots.
Meanwhile, First Minister John Swinney praised emergency teams for their resilience during the prolonged operation. He recognised the challenges created by changing weather conditions and welcomed the strong support from local communities. He also confirmed authorities no longer require additional heavy machinery. However, he urged the public to stay away from the affected area while emergency services continue their work.
Emergency services said crews will remain on the ground until they extinguish every remaining hotspot. Authorities will continue assessing conditions and monitoring the landscape to prevent further flare-ups as firefighting operations continue.
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