Cairngorms wildfire is 'not contained' and still burning hard, residents warn
A wildfire in the Cairngorms remains dangerous and unpredictable after four days, despite ongoing efforts by firefighters and helicopters. Local residents and officials have criticized the government's initial assessment that the blaze was contained.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing environmental risks in Scotland and the challenges of managing large-scale wildfires in remote, mountainous terrain.
Image source, RSPB Scotland Image caption, Firefighters, land workers and community volunteers have been working to stop the wildfire spread
A wildfire which has been burning in the Cairngorms for four days remains "dangerous and unpredictable," a senior firefighter has warned.
Community leaders previously criticised the Scottish government for describing the blaze which started near Ryvoan Bothy, south of Nethy Bridge on Wednesday, as "contained".
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said hundreds of firefighters, two helicopters and specialist resources had tackled the flames.
The SFRS said about four square kilometres of land had been affected by the fire but crews hoped to make "progress" on Saturday.
Homes and businesses, including campsites and a ski resort in the Glenmore Forest Park area, have been evacuated as a safety precaution.
A high volume pump has been used to draw water from Loch Morlich to support firefighting efforts.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in