Highlands and Moray at ‘extreme’ wildfire risk, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service warns amid ongoing dry spell
'Extreme' and 'very high' wildfire warnings have been issued for the Highlands and Moray.
Following the dry March and forecasts for a lengthy dry and sunny spell, dead vegetation is tinder dry in many areas.
And the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has urged people enjoying the outdoors to take extra care - with the risk of wildfires set to rise sharply in the coming days.
Group Commander Garry Douglas is one of the SFRS’s tactical advisors. He said: “During any period of heightened risk, fires can ignite easily, spread very quickly, and burn with high intensity.
“At this time of year in early Spring, we typically have a large volume of dead, bone-dry vegetation across large areas of countryside. This essentially acts as a fuel for fire.
“There are currently vast areas that are tinder dry and vulnerable, which provides all the ingredients for fire to take hold and spread.
“Human behaviour is the cause of most wildfires in Scotland, so it is imperative we all act responsibly while enjoying the outdoors especially over the coming days of predicted sunshine.
“By following some simple but key advice, we can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire occurring."
Today (Wednesday), there are 'very high' and 'extreme' wildfire risks in Caithness, eastern Sutherland, Easter Ross, the Black Isle, Inverness, northern parts of the Great Glen, Nairnshire, Moray and most of Aberdeenshire.
There are also very high risks in parts of Wester Ross, centred on the Applecross peninsula and the areas around Loch Ewe, Gruinard Bay, Little Loch Broom and Loch Broom.
By Monday, however, these risks will extend to encompass all of the Highlands, Moray and Aberdeenshire - as well as virtually all other parts of Scotland.
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 & 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.
