Smoke from the ongoing wildfire in Cairngorms National Park has drifted as far as Aberdeen as weather conditions change.
The fire service said residents in the east of Aviemore as well as in Aberdeenshire may see or smell smoke on Friday and going into the weekend.
Hazy smoke reached Aberdeen more than 50 miles away, with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service advising residents to keep doors and windows closed as a precaution.
The wildfire, which broke out near the village of Glenmore on Wednesday last week, led to residents and campsites being evacuated.
It covered an area of about six square kilometres of heather and small trees at its height.
More than 100 firefighters have been mobilised to the incident alongside specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles and partner agencies.
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.”
Read MoreEnergy Secretary sends ‘important signal’ as she makes Aberdeen her first visit
Tourists warned to stay away as ‘substantial hotspots remain’
Canada’s fire response is too slow and front-line communities pay the price
‘Mega dinghy’ carrying record number of migrants crosses channel
Heat health alerts for parts of England over busy getaway weekend
