Home / Disasters and Accidents / Cairngorms Wildfire Rages: Almost 3 Weeks On
Cairngorms Wildfire Rages: Almost 3 Weeks On
4 Aug
Summary
- Wildfire in Cairngorms National Park has burned for nearly three weeks.
- Thousands of acres of moor and woodland have been consumed by the blaze.
- Firefighters continue to tackle deep-seated fires and hotspots.
For nearly three weeks, a significant wildfire has been burning in the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore. As of August 4, 2026, approximately 30 firefighters and six fire appliances remain on site, continuing to combat deep-seated fires and hotspots.
The blaze, which ignited on July 15, 2026, has already consumed thousands of acres of the park's valuable moorland and woodland. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is receiving support from volunteers and helicopter crews.
Despite the ongoing incident, the Refuel music festival has been granted permission to proceed at Badaguish Outdoor Centre. Attendees and staff will need to present proof of site access or a valid ticket at a checkpoint. However, the wider Glenmore Forest and Loch Morlich areas are still considered unsafe for public access.
Earlier on August 4, 2026, smoke from the fire drifted towards Aviemore due to a shift in wind direction, prompting SFRS to advise residents and visitors to keep windows and doors closed. Over 500 firefighters have been involved in the operation, aided by community support and local organizations.
