Smoke from a significant wildfire in Cairngorms National Park has drifted over 50 miles to Aberdeen, as changing weather conditions spread its reach.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) warned residents in east Aviemore and Aberdeenshire to expect to see or smell smoke through the weekend. They advised keeping windows and doors closed as a precaution.
The blaze, which began near Glenmore last Wednesday, previously forced evacuations of residents and campsites. At its height, it consumed about six square kilometres of heather and small trees.
Over 100 firefighters, alongside specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles, and partner agencies, are mobilised to the incident.
The fire service said on Friday that the incident “remains dynamic and unpredictable”.
Earlier, walkers and visitors were urged to stay away from the affected area as “substantial hotspots remain”.
Deputy assistant chief officer Michael Humphreys said: “Our crews and specialist resources remain at the scene of the wildfire within the Cairngorms National Park.
“Progress is being made; however, wildfires can change rapidly and unexpectedly.
“The situation on the ground remains dynamic and continues to be influenced by changing weather conditions, particularly wind strength and direction.
“Wind changes often cause flare-ups, fire spread, and smoke to change direction, as we are witnessing today and over the past 24 hours.
“Our wildfire tactical advisors are continually monitoring conditions.
“We remain in attendance along with partner agencies to dampen down hot spots and prevent further fire spread, supported by ongoing helicopter water-bombing operations.”
He said the incident had been “appropriately and proportionately resourced throughout”.
RSPB Scotland manages the Loch Garten Nature Reserve near the site of the wildfire, with its staff and volunteers involved in the firefighting efforts.
A spokesperson said: “Over the last week there has been a tireless effort to tackle the ongoing wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park.
“While encouraging progress had been made thanks to the immense support, unfortunately the fire threat has once again been growing at RSPB Abernethy since yesterday afternoon (Thursday) following a change in weather conditions.
“The situation is serious and staff, volunteers and partners are at this time focused on doing all they can to support the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service who are co-ordinating the response.
“We are hopeful we will receive helicopter support today.”
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