First Minister John Swinney has welcomed continued progress in controlling the Cairngorms wildfires as he chaired another meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) yesterday afternoon (Sunday).
Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth, Justice Secretary Neil Gray and Climate Action and Rural Affairs Secretary Gillian Martin were also in attendance, along with representatives from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, Highland Council and Cairngorms National Park.
The SFRS confirmed that a Level 3 response will continue and reported positive progress in controlling the outbreak.
Additional support for residents in Nethy Bridge remains in place through the Local Resilience Partnership.
The First Minister said: “As our emergency services and partners continue to tackle the wildfires in the Cairngorms, I am pleased to see there has been welcome progress and I thank all again for their continued hard work and collaboration.
“The Scottish Government requested military assistance, in the form of aerial support to drop water on the fire, from the Ministry of Defence to supplement existing aerial resources that are in place.
We have received a formal response advising that the UK Government are not in a position to agree to this request, given that the Ministry of Defence does not possess aerial firefighting assets stationed within the UK. The offer of other resources is welcome but SFRS has confirmed they have the other resources they need.
“Ministers will continue to be updated on the fire and resources and services will remain until the fire is out.
“As I stated earlier, this wildfire is being treated with the utmost seriousness and necessary resources will be in place until the last flames are out.”
Evacuated residents advised it is safe to return home
First Minister John Swinney has welcomed the news that residents of Nethy Bridge affected by the precautionary evacuations prompted by the Cairngorms wildfire have been advised they can return home.
At a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) this evening the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) reported good progress in strengthening fire breaks to protect residential areas and said the number of hot spots are reducing. Two helicopters have each been dropping between 20,000 and 40,000 litres an hour on the areas affected.
The meeting was chaired by the First Minister with Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth, Justice Secretary Neil Gray and Net Zero Secretary Gillian Martin also in attendance, along with representatives from the SFRS, Police Scotland, Highland Council and Cairngorms National Park.
The First Minister said last night: “Efforts to tackle the wildfire in the Cairngorms are in their tenth day, and changeable weather conditions have presented a range of challenges for those on the ground. I praise their resilience and tireless efforts to bring it under control.
“With residents in Nethy Bridge now able to return to their homes, Police Scotland have lifted the Major Incident declaration. I want to stress however, that the Scottish Government, the emergency services and all relevant authorities will continue to treat this wildfire, as has been the case since its onset, with the utmost seriousness and necessary resources until the last flames are out.
“I have been heartened to hear of the cooperation and support from the local community – an appeal earlier today for assistance with the provision of plant machinery to help firefighting efforts was responded to quickly and no further equipment is needed at this time.
“We do ask for the continued patience of members of the public and their cooperation in staying away from the area both for their own safety and to enable those on the scene to focus on the task at hand.”
The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) will meet again today.
Police Scotland Superintendent Judy Hill said last night: “I would want to reassure our communities that the ongoing multi agency response remains a high priority, with significant partnership resources and volunteers working tirelessly and in challenging circumstances, to support our efforts to extinguish the fires.
“Thanks to the efforts of fire crews, gamekeepers, contractors, partners and many others over the past 24 hours, there is no longer the immediate threat which prompted the evacuation of properties in Nethy Bridge.
“We are grateful to the community for their support and understanding in what has been a period of concern and disruption.”
The major incident, declared by Police Scotland on Friday night as a result of a change in weather conditions due to the immediate risk to the community, has been stood down while Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland and our Local Response Partners continue to put all required resources to tacking the fire.
Firefighters will continue to maintain a significant operational presence until the incident is safely concluded. Seventy five firefighters have remained on the ground today, working alongside partner agencies, and more than 30 heavy machinery operators, to tackle areas of fire affecting land near Nethy Bridge. Helicopter water-bombing has continued and remains a vital part of supporting crews on the ground.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has thanked volunteers who have offered assistance. Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “The decision to stand down the major incident follows a detailed assessment by emergency responders.
“The extensive work carried out over recent days, including the creation of effective fire breaks, has significantly reduced the risk to nearby communities, allowing evacuated residents to safely return home.
“Public safety remains our absolute priority. We want to reassure local communities that we will maintain a significant operational response until the incident has been safely concluded and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.
“We would also like to thank everyone who has supported the response, including the heavy machinery operators, Forestry and Land Scotland, the Cairngorms National Park Authority, landowners, estate game keepers, volunteers and our emergency service partners.”
A total of more than 500 firefighters have been involved in the response since the incident began on 15 July.
The existing advice for those living in the affected areas and the areas that are currently being impacted by the spread of smoke, including Aberdeenshire and Moray, are asked to keep all windows and doors closed.
Police Scotland declares major incident as emergency services respond to wildfire near Nethy Bridge
Police Scotland has declared a major incident as emergency services continue to respond to the ongoing wildfire within the Cairngorms National Park.
The decision follows a significant change in weather conditions, with strengthening winds contributing to increased unpredictable fire behaviour and the spread of the wildfire towards Nethy Bridge.
As a precaution, all residents of Nethy Bridge are being evacuated to allow emergency services to continue their operational response safely and effectively. Residents are being directed to a dedicated respite centre at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort and access roads into Nethy Bridge have been closed.
Superintendent Judy Hill, Police Scotland, said: “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.
“Additional police resources are being deployed to assist in contacting those who need to leave their properties and to maintain cordons around restricted areas while our fire service colleagues continue to tackle the wildfire.
“We understand this is a very concerning time for residents, businesses and visitors to the Cairngorms region. Please be assured that the multi-agency response remains fully committed to bringing this incident to a safe conclusion as quickly as possible.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has maintained a significant operational response since the wildfire was first reported on Wednesday, 15 July.
More than 500 firefighters have been mobilised over the course of the incident, alongside specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles, helicopter water-bombing operations and partner agencies.
Firefighters continue to work across a vast and challenging landscape alongside Forestry and Land Scotland, the Cairngorms National Park Authority, landowners, estate gamekeepers and emergency service partners.
Their expertise, local knowledge and support have been instrumental in helping crews respond to this complex and dynamic incident.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “Our firefighters, specialist resources and partners have worked tirelessly over the past nine days to respond to this challenging and complex wildfire incident.
“The combination of prolonged dry conditions, strengthening winds and challenging terrain has created an extremely complex operational environment. Large areas of the fire ground are inaccessible by vehicle or on foot, making helicopter water-bombing operations and specialist wildfire tactics essential to our response.
“Throughout this incident, partnership working has been fundamental. I would like to thank Forestry and Land Scotland, the Cairngorms National Park Authority, landowners, estate gamekeepers and our emergency service partners, whose expertise, local knowledge and continued support have been invaluable in helping us protect communities and the natural environment.
“More than 500 firefighters have been mobilised since the incident began, supported by specialist wildfire appliances, all-terrain vehicles, helicopters and partner agencies. We will continue to maintain a significant operational response for as long as it is required.
“We recognise this is an extremely worrying time for those affected, particularly residents who have been asked to leave their homes. Public safety remains our absolute priority, and we ask everyone to continue following the advice of Police Scotland and to stay away from the affected areas while firefighting operations remain ongoing.”
Members of the public should continue to avoid the affected areas within the Cairngorms National Park. The area remains unsafe due to active firefighting operations, rapidly changing fire conditions and helicopter activity.
The following areas remain closed or subject to access restrictions:
• Paths around Glenmore, Loch Morlich and Badaguish. • Low-level routes including the Old Logging Way and routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A’ Bhuachaille, the Green Loch (Lochan Uaine), Strath Nethy and Bynack More. • Paths within Abernethy Forest to the south of Forest Lodge towards Ryvoan Bothy. Residents are urged to follow all advice issued by Police Scotland and emergency services.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) met last night to discuss the evacuation of Nethy Bridge after Police Scotland declared the Cairngorms National Park wildfire a major incident.
The meeting was chaired by First Minister John Swinney and attended by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth, Justice Secretary Neil Gray and other Ministers and partners.
The First Minister said: “This is clearly a very serious situation and is a hugely concerning and anxious time for residents and businesses in Nethy Bridge, and my thoughts are with them.
“As a result of changes in wind conditions that intensified the pace of spread of the wildfire, Police Scotland declared a major incident requiring the evacuation of the village of Nethy Bridge as a precaution.
“SFRS resources are focussed on creating a fire break and additional police resources are being deployed to assist with the evacuation, including identifying vulnerable residents who may need extra support. Residents are being directed to a respite centre in Aviemore, where Highland Council can provide support and advice.
“I am extremely grateful to all the first responders who have been working hard to control this fire since it was first reported last Wednesday. I remain in continued contact with SFRS and partners and SGORR will convene again.
“This is a serious situation and I strongly urge people to continue to follow all advice from emergency services and transport authorities and continue to avoid the affected areas in the Cairngorms National Park.”
SATURDAY 25 JULY UPDATE
Resilience Room reconvenes to discuss ongoing incident
The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) reconvened this morning at 7am to review the position on the Cairngorms National Park wildfire.
The meeting was chaired by First Minister John Swinney and attended by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, other partners, Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth and Justice Secretary Neil Gray.
A precautionary evacuation of Nethy Bridge began on Friday 24 July 2026 after Police Scotland declared a major incident following changes in wind conditions that intensified the pace of spread of the wildfire.
A fire break around the village was established overnight, new fire breaks are being constructed and SFRS is deploying additional resources.
The First Minister said: “This continues to be a very serious situation. Residents, businesses and people staying in the affected areas will understandably be very worried. My thoughts are with them and I thank them for their understanding.
“With the fire changing to be in the direction of Nethy Bridge yesterday afternoon, a precautionary evacuation was put in place and a fire break was successfully established overnight to protect the village. Police officers visited all properties in Nethy Bridge and officers are in the village today to support residents.
“The wind has changed direction overnight, which means the track of the fire has altered once again and the threat to Nethy Bridge has reduced, for the moment at least. Ground and helicopter resources are being focused on the current path of the fire and new fire breaks constructed.
“This demonstrates how these situations can change very quickly and dramatically, reflecting the challenges being faced by SFRS and the other responders tackling this wildfire. It does not mean however that anyone should return to that area until they have been given the go-ahead to do so. Further decisions will be taken later today by the Local Resilience Partnership and the Scottish Government Resilience Room will also reconvene.
“I remain extremely grateful to the emergency services and all those involved who are working tirelessly to control this fire and support local residents. I reiterate the message that people in the area must follow the advice of emergency services and the Cairngorms National Park – it is essential people avoid the affected areas.”
It’s important to talk to children and young people about their safety around water. Have a conversation about it today and explain:
• They should never swim in an unsupervised area like lochs, rivers, sea or ponds where there isn’t an adult to help if they get into trouble
• It’s much safer to go to a swimming pool where there’s a lifeguard on duty
• They shouldn’t play with or touch lifesaving equipment like life rings by the side of waterways. That equipment might be used to save someone’s life.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remain in attendance at a fire in the open at Arthur’s Seat.
A spokesperson said last night: “We were alerted at 6.38pm on Sunday, 19 July to reports of a fire in the open at Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.
“Operations Control mobilised six fire appliances and specialist resources to the scene where firefighters are working to extinguish a fire affecting an area of grass.
“There are no reported casualties and crews remain at the scene.”
Six fire appliances, two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), a Wildfire Support Unit and a water carrier are at the scene
Firefighters are continuing to tackle a wildfire in the Glenmore area of the Cairngorms National Park for a fourth consecutive day, supported by specialist resources and helicopter water-bombing operations.
The situation on the ground remains dynamic and continues to be influenced by changing weather conditions, particularly wind strength and direction.
However, there has been significant progress over the past 24 hours, with conditions on both the eastern flank, including the Strathnethyarea, and the western flank showing marked improvement compared with this time yesterday.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) continues to work in partnership with agencies and landowners to build on this progress.
The period between 3:00pm and 6:30pm remains the most challenging part of the day, as warmer temperatures and changing wind conditions can influence fire behaviour. Firefighters are continuing to monitor conditions closely and respond where required.
In light of the progress made, SFRS is reviewing its operational requirements and resource deployment for tonight and tomorrow. Crews remain fully committed to maintaining control of the incident and protecting local communities.
There are encouraging signs across the affected area, with visible improvements becoming increasingly evident. While this is positive, wildfires can change rapidly and unexpectedly, and it is important that we do not become complacent.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys said: “We hope this update provides reassurance to local residents and communities. However, it is equally important that expectations are managed given the unpredictable nature of wildfire incidents and the ongoing influence of weather conditions.
“We would like to thank the partnership working of landowners and agencies and our local communities for their continued patience, and cooperation throughout this incident.”
Police and partners continue to respond to a large fire near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park.
The fire was reported around 11.50am on Wednesday, 15 July, 2026, and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remain on scene.
Police Scotland is co-ordinating a multi-agency response and a number of properties and premises in the area have been evacuated as a precaution.
The C7 road, known locally as Ski Road, is closed at Coylumbridge.
Please avoid the area and check with your accommodation if you are due to travel in the coming days to check if it is still accessible.
Police have assisted walkers off the hill, and we are advising remaining walkers to continue to make efforts to get to safety. Anyone requiring emergency assistance should call 999. Please let family or friends know when you have returned.
The Care for People plans are in place, and partners have been in touch with vulnerable people in the area.
Nearby residents are asked to keep windows and doors closed. Anyone concerned about symptoms should check NHS24.
Unmanned aircraft should not be flown close to or within the airspace.
Drone pilots and operators are reminded it is an offence to fly over an ongoing emergency response without prior permission from emergency services.
Please check NOTAM information and Drone Safety Map before flying.
SCOTTISH Fire and Rescue Service said earlier: ‘We are currently in attendance at a large fire in the open near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park.
Operations Control were first alerted at 11.49am and we have mobilised four fire appliances and specialist wildfire resources to the area. There are no reported casualties.
‘Due to large volumes of smoke travelling towards populated areas nearby, residents in Aviemore, Glenmore and the surrounding communities should keep their windows and doors closed. If you are within this area and can see or smell smoke, please follow the same advice.
‘While we want people to enjoy the good weather, we ask that anyone in the Cairngorms National Park near to Aviemore and Glenmore avoids the area.’
The fifth annual World Drowning Prevention Day event returns to Loch Lomond Shores on Saturday July 25, 2026
The family‑friendly programme is designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.
Event supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.
Water Safety Scotland will host its annual World Drowning Prevention Day event at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, on Saturday 25 July, 2026, offering a free, family‑friendly programme designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.
Now in its fifth year, the event coincides with the launch of Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy, marking an important step forward in national efforts to prevent drowning.
The event is supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.
Attendees can look forward to a packed programme of hands‑on, family‑friendly activities, including:
Discovering essential, life‑saving skills through the Water Safety Code
Live rescue demonstrations from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs
Paddleboarding and canoeing taster sessions led by Paddle Scotland and CAG Adventures
A variety of interactive stands, offering engaging activities and practical safety advice.
The event runs from 11.00am to 3.00pm and is open to all, with families, young people and community groups especially encouraged to attend.
Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland and Head of Policy at RoSPA, said:“Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives.
“With Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy launched, World Drowning Prevention Day gives us a vital opportunity to help people understand simple actions that can keep them and others safe around water.
“We want everyone to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways, but to do so safely. Events like this offer a fun, supportive way to learn the skills and knowledge that make a real difference.”
Community Safety Minister, Kirsten Oswald, said:“The Scottish Government remains committed to promoting water safety and preventing accidents in our waterways.
“As we enjoy the summer, one that has been particularly warm, heading into the water often feels inviting, so I urge anyone planning to be in or around water to exercise caution and follow the safety advice available.
“The Water Safety Code sets out three key steps: stop and think, spot the dangers; stay together, stay close; and in an emergency, call 999.”
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said: “We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant during the summer months when people are often more likely to be around water.
“We’re delighted to be involved in this event again this year, it provides a valuable opportunity for us to have water-safety conversations with people to build the vital knowledge and skills to help people stay safer in, on and around water.”
With Scotland’s abundance of coastlines, lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s absolutely vital that everyone has the opportunity to learn basic water safety skills.”
Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said:“We are pleased to support World Drowning Prevention Day once again and to welcome partners and communities back to Loch Lomond Shores for this important event.
“This year’s gathering comes as Scotland strengthens its national approach to drowning prevention with a new national Drowning Prevention Strategy, highlighting the importance of working together in places like the National Park, where millions of people visit every year.
“Even on the warmest days, Loch Lomond and other open water across the Park remain cold enough to trigger cold water shock, and hidden hazards or sudden changes in depth can impact the strongest swimmers. That’s why planning ahead, understanding local conditions and following the Water Safety Code remain essential for anyone spending time in or around our lochs and rivers.
“We look forward to encouraging people to respect the Loch Lomond Byelaws, to follow simple lifesaving guidance such as ‘Float to Live’, and to look out for one another. We want everyone to enjoy the National Park this summer, but to do so safely and responsibly.”
Anthony Mallon, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander and Community Safety Engagement for Prevention said:“We want people of all ages to be safe around water by understanding the risks and knowing how to prevent drowning.
“Education and drowning prevention remain central to our work to help communities safe. Our firefighters and Community Action Teams engage with community groups throughout Scotland, sharing practical advice on staying safe near water and what to do in an emergency.
“The key message for everyone is to follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and think, stay together, and in an emergency, float.”
Very High risk of wildfire warning for Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: 15-20 July
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF) have issued a wildfire warning for some parts of Scotland:
Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: from Wednesday, 15 July to Monday, 20 July, there will be a very high risk of wildfire.
SFRS’ Wildfire Tactical Advisor, Kevin Dingwall, said: “A very high wildfire risk is forecast across central highlands, southern and eastern Scotland later this week and into the weekend.
“We know many people will want to enjoy the warmer weather. If you’re spending time outdoors, please do so responsibly and take simple steps to prevent fires from starting.
“Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.
“Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That’s why it’s so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.
“Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.
“You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors.”
If you see a large outdoor fire, call 999 immediately. Give the location and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.
Emergency services remain in attendance following a fire at a disused building on Princes Street, Edinburgh.
Officers were called to assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue around 3.05am on Thursday, 9 July, 2026. There are no reported injuries.
Firefighters and officers cannot enter the building as, at this time, it is deemed not safe to enter. Work is ongoing to ensure the area is made safe and enquiries are at an early stage.
The surrounding area of Princes Street remains closed, along with Rose Street, Frederick Street and Castle Street.
Members of the public are advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed where possible.
A joint investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
