Police Scotland has declared a major incident after a wildfire that has burned in the Cairngorms National Park for 10 days intensified following a change in weather conditions. The altered wind direction increased the risk of the fire spreading towards the village of Nethy Bridge, prompting the evacuation of all residents as a precaution.
Evacuations and emergency response
Evacuated residents have been directed to a dedicated respite centre at the Macdonald Aviemore Hotel. Police said additional officers are being deployed to contact people who need to leave their properties and to maintain cordons while the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and partner agencies continue firefighting operations.
“The weather conditions experienced within the Cairngorms over the last 24 hours have added further complexities to this situation. With evidence suggesting the fire is spreading towards Nethy Bridge, the decision has been taken to declare a major incident and evacuate residents as a precaution.”
The blaze first broke out near Ryvoan Bothy, south of Nethy Bridge, the previous Wednesday. Fire crews have been working on the incident for more than a week.
Scale and behaviour of the fire
Emergency services report that smoke from the wildfire is now visible 59 miles away in Aberdeen after the change in wind direction. The SFRS has described the fire as "dynamic and unpredictable", warning that shifting wind strength and direction can cause flare‑ups, reignition and the spread of smoke.
- More than 100 firefighters have been engaged at the scene.
- 11 fire engines remain deployed, alongside wildlife units and a command support unit.
- Drones are in use to direct crews to hot spots; miles‑long firebreaks have been created to contain break‑outs.
| Resource | Reported count |
|---|---|
| Firefighters | 100+ |
| Fire engines | 11 |
| Other units | Wildlife units, command support, drones |
Impact and public safety guidance
The declaration of a major incident reflects concern that the fire could threaten populated areas as weather conditions change. Police confirmed access roads into Nethy Bridge have been closed while crews work in the area.
Advice for people in the wider area:
- Follow instructions from Police Scotland and the SFRS; evacuation orders should be complied with promptly.
- Avoid unnecessary travel near the Cairngorms; closed access roads may affect routes and services.
- Those with respiratory conditions should be cautious of smoke; keep windows and doors closed and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
- Do not approach the fire or firefighting operations; maintain cordons to allow emergency crews to work safely.
Firefighters reported using long firebreaks to contain recent flare‑ups, while drones have helped to identify hot spots for targeted response. Police and fire services stressed that conditions remain changeable and crews are working to prevent further spread.
InfoRadar will continue to monitor official updates from Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as the situation develops.
