Firefighters battle wildfire at Stac Pollaidh in Assynt
Firefighters are battling a wildfire near an iconic mountain in the Highlands on the NC500 with roads closed and heavy smoke visible in the area.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said crews are tackling the blaze at Stac Pollaidh in Inverpolly Forest, north of Ullapool.
Crews say there is heavy smoke as a result of the fire and members of the public are urged to stay away.
Police Scotland confirmed the A835 is closed at the junction of Achiltibuie and the junction at Badnagyle due to the wildfire.
Emergency services are on the scene and drivers urged to avoid the area.
A total of six crews are currently in attendance, with personnel travelling almost 70 miles to offer assistance.
Firefighters at the scene have reported a fire wall stretching 6km, as efforts to dampen down the flames continue.
Large plumes of smoke have descended over the area, hampering visibility, as work to extinguish the flames continues six hours on.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Firefighters are battling a wildfire at Stac Pollaidh, Inverpolly Forest, north of Ullapool.
“There is heavy smoke, and members of the public are urged to stay away from the area. Stay safe and share this information.”
A Police Scotland statement read: “The A835 is closed at the junction of Achiltibuie and the junction at Badnagyle following a wildfire reported around 9.50am on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
“Emergency services are in attendance and drivers are asked to avoid the area.”
Crews from Ullapool, Lairg, Kinlochbervie, Dornoch, Tain and Achiltibuie remain at the scene.
A welfare unit from Dingwall is also supporting crews on the ground.
Stac Pollaidh at 2008 feet is widely recognised as one of the most popular hills to climb in Scotland with spectacular views down Loch Lurgainn and over to the Coigach peaks, the Assynt hills, and Beinn Dearg.
