The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has issued a warning that much of Scotland will face an “extreme” risk of wildfires in the coming days, with a particularly high danger anticipated across the north-east, central, and southern regions of the country.
According to the SFRS, the wildfire risk will be “very high” on Monday and Tuesday in these areas. However, from Wednesday through to Saturday, the danger escalates to an “extreme” level before easing back to a “very high” risk on Sunday.
Michael Humphreys, the wildfire lead for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, emphasised the severity of the situation, stating: “We are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid using anything involving a naked flame.”
He explained that the early spring season typically leaves much of the countryside covered with dead, bone-dry vegetation, which acts as a critical fuel source for fires. Humphreys said: “There are currently vast areas that are tinder dry and vulnerable, which provides all the ingredients for fire to take hold and spread.”
Concerns focus heavily on the impact wildfires can have on rural and remote communities, with potential damage to livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodlands, and sites of special scientific interest. He added that the effects can be devastating to the lives of people living and working in these areas.
“Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is imperative we all act responsibly while enjoying the outdoors especially over the coming days of predicted sunshine,” Humphreys urged.
He also advised everyone to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code carefully during this high-risk period.
These warnings come in the aftermath of large-scale wildfires earlier in April, which were fuelled by dry and sunny weather. One notable fire on the Isle of Arran burned for five days, causing significant devastation in the Glen Rosa area. In another incident, campers had to be rescued by helicopter from a fire in Galloway Forest Park.
Both the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildfire Forum are actively encouraging the public to avoid lighting outdoor fires during this critical period to reduce the risk of further wildfire outbreaks.
The Daily Record is reporting these developments and will continue to provide updates and information regarding wildfire risks across Scotland.
Source: Noah Wire Services