A835 re-opens after wildfire near Stac Pollaidh as crews standby over ‘extreme’ risk of blazes in Highlands
A KEY trunk road in Ross-shire has reopened after being closed yesterday due to a wildfire near an iconic peak visited by thousands every year.
Firefighters yesterday urged the public to stay away from wildfires after an outbreak at Inverpolly Forest near Stac Pollaidh on Sunday morning.
Six Scottish Fire & Rescue Service appliances were mobilised to tackle the blaze which took hold at the scene north of Ullapool.
Police closed junctions on the nearby A835 coastal road at Achiltibuie and Badnagyle after the wildfires were reported at around 9.50am.
Police said in a message issued this morning: “Thank you to everyone for their patience.
”The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remains in the area.”
Much of the Highlands had been put on alert for wildfires last week. That followed the dry March and forecasts for a lengthy dry and sunny spell in the days ahead with dead vegetation tinder dry in many areas.
The areas of particular concern include parts of Wester Ross, centred on the Applecross peninsula and the areas around Loch Ewe, Gruinard Bay, Little Loch Broom and Loch Broom.
In the north, the highest 'extreme' risk on Monday will be centred on Wester Ross, although a 'very high' risk will be present in all other Highland and Moray locations.
Urging people to take care, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fires can ignite easily and spread fast. Avoid outdoor fires and barbecues.
"Dispose of cigarettes and glass safely. Most wildfires are human-caused - act responsibly!"
For wildfire safety tips and advice, visit www.firescotland.gov.uk/outdoors/wildfires.
