Last Firefighters Leave Massive Cairngorms Blaze

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) crews have concluded their operations at a significant wildfire that ignited in the Cairngorms National Park almost five weeks ago. The final 15 firefighters were stood down on Monday at the RSPB Abernethy Nature Reserve, marking an important milestone. The wildfire commenced in the Glenmore area near Aviemore on July 15th, consuming approximately 10 square miles of moorland and forestry.

The extensive blaze necessitated the evacuation of some homes and campsites, with over 500 firefighters engaged at its peak. RSPB Scotland noted the SFRS departure as a key achievement but cautioned that visitor access to RSPB Abernethy will remain restricted for some time. SFRS described the incident as complex and prolonged, causing considerable disruption and concern for local communities and businesses.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer William Pollard emphasized that while SFRS has left, significant areas within the park have undergone disruption due to firefighting efforts and the creation of firebreaks. He urged the public to avoid closed or restricted zones due to unsafe ground conditions. Forestry and Land Scotland has also implemented access restrictions in parts of Glenmore Forest, as businesses begin to reopen and welcome visitors back.