Cairngorms wildfire burns for third day across nearly four miles

Cairngorms wildfire burns for third day across nearly four milesImage source, PA MediaImage caption, The scene in the Cairngorms late on Thursday nightPublished17 July 2026, 08:09 BSTUpdated 23 minutes agoFirefighters are spending a third day tackling a major wildfire which has led to evacuations in the Cairngorms.The blaze started in heathland at Ryvoan Bothy, near Nethy Bridge, late on Wednesday morning and had spread across 3.7 miles (6km) by Thursday afternoon.A number of homes and businesses, including campsites and ski resorts in the Glenmore Forest Park area have been closed and evacuated as a safety precaution.A helicopter joined the firefighting efforts on Thursday. Six fire engines and specialist resources remained at the scene on Friday morning.Cairngorms wildfire 'contained', but very high risk remainsPublished16 hours agoScots urged to 'stay vigilant' as wildfire risk very highPublished1 day agoScotland facing escalating threat from wildfires - reportPublished6 MarchThe Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said it was facing a "protracted incident" as it sought to prevent the flames spreading to other areas, but added that it had "adequate resources" to deal with the incident.On Thursday, Justice Secretary Neil Gray, whose ministerial responsibilities include the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), said the fire was "currently contained" thanks to "exceptional work of firefighters".There have been no reports of any casualties.Image source, PA MediaImage caption, Photos from Thursday show the impact of the fireLynne Gow, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) area commander based in the Highlands, said: "I would agree that we have adequate resources. We're absolutely certain of our practical plan here."The RSPB said approximately 300 hectares of land have been burned so far.The charity said 27 of its staff and volunteers were out helping fight the blaze earlier in the w...