Wildfire still burning across four miles as helicopter waterbombs Cairngorms

Here is the latest breaking news from around the world: Wildfire still burning across four miles as helicopter waterbombs Cairngorms Figure caption, Watch: Wildfires tear through Cairngorms national park in ScotlandByCatherine LystBBC ScotlandPublished17 July 2026, 08:09 BSTUpdated 12 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 a ski resort in the Glenmore Forest Park area have been closed and evacuated as a safety precaution. A helicopter joined the firefighting efforts on Thursday night. Nine fire appliances and specialist resources remained at the scene on Friday morning.

The Details

The 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. Along with landowners, fire crews have been creating fire breaks to contain the spread. Michael Byrne, a climate scientist at St Andrews University, told the that more rainfall during the winter plus overall warming was leading to an increasing threat of wildfires in Scotland.

Cairngorms wildfire 'contained', but very high risk remains Published17 hours agoScots urged to 'stay vigilant' as wildfire risk very high Published1 day agoScotland facing escalating threat from wildfires - report Published6 MarchOn 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. A number of people in the local community had been calling for a helicopter to be brought in.

The SFRS said there had been a request for a helicopter on Wednesday but none were available at the time. A helicopter has since been waterbombing the area. The SFRS has said the fire is still burning with flames continuing at a steady pace.

What Experts Say

Lynne Gow, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) area commander based in the Highlands, said the service had adequate resources in place. "We're absolutely certain of our practical plan here," she said. Image source, PA MediaImage caption, The scene in the Cairngorms late on Thursday nightThe 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 week, using equipment including all-terrain vehicles with water bowsers, backpack hoses and shovels. A strict cordon remains in place and people have been warned not to travel to the area or attempt to access Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich or the surrounding area while firefighting operations are ongoing.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.