Walkers and visitors are being urged to stay away from areas affected by the ongoing wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park, as "substantial hotspots remain".
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said on Thursday that crews would remain on scene over the weekend and into next week, working to tackle remaining pockets of fire, prevent reignition, and monitor conditions.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys said: "While the overall situation is improving, there are still substantial hotspots burning across a large and complex landscape. These hotspots continue to require intensive firefighting efforts, both on the ground and from the air, and crews will remain on scene into next week."
The wildfire, which broke out near the village of Glenmore on Wednesday last week, led to residents and campsites being evacuated. At its height, it covered an area of about six square kilometres of heather and small trees.
More than 100 firefighters have been mobilised to the incident, alongside specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles, and partner agencies.
SFRS said helicopters continue to support crews, landowners and estate workers on the ground, targeting hotspots in locations that are difficult to access.
Significant progress has been made in tackling the fire, but SFRS emphasised that the area “remains unsafe for public access” while firefighting operations, including helicopter water-bombing, continue.
“We are asking members of the public to continue staying away from the affected areas while these operations remain ongoing,” Mr Humphreys added.
“This allows firefighters and partners to work safely and effectively, reduces unnecessary impact on the emergency services, and helps protect the public from potential hazards.”
Despite road closures, signage and police cordons being in place, SFRS said emergency services continue to receive reports of people attempting to enter the affected area.
Colin Simpson, head of visitor services and active travel at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said he knows visitors are keen to return to the “much-loved” Glenmore area as soon as possible, but urged people not to bypass closures or travel into restricted areas.
“As the weekend approaches, I’d encourage everyone to respect the access restrictions to give all those involved in the firefighting efforts the space they need to continue their work,” Mr Simpson said.
“Nearby destinations such as Aviemore are still welcoming visitors as usual, and there are plenty of other attractions and areas to explore across the national park.”
SFRS said the situation remains “dynamic”, and weather conditions continue to play a significant role.
Strong winds have the potential to reignite hotspots and spread fire into previously unaffected areas.
Crews will continue to monitor conditions closely until the incident is fully brought under control.
Closed and restricted areas include paths around Glenmore, Loch Morlich and Badaguish; as well as low-level routes including the Old Logging Way and routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A’ Bhuachaille, the Green Loch (Lochan Uaine), Strath Nethy or Bynack More.
Paths within Abernethy Forest to the south of Forest Lodge towards Ryvoan Bothy also remain closed.
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