Cairngorms National ParkCooler weather and rain has helped prevent the further spreading of the Cairngorms wildfire.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said on Tuesday that there has been limited change in the blaze, following “encouraging progress” and a reduction in visible flames on Monday.
The fire is estimated to have affected an area of around 25 sq km since it was first reported near Ryvoan Bothy, south of Nethy Bridge, on July 15.
Firefighting is still ongoing to tackle smouldering areas, hot spots and flare-ups, particularly in the north of the incident.
Cooler weather and rain are also helping prevent further spread, the SFRS said.
Helicopters, sourced and funded by Forestry and Land Scotland, have been used to water-bomb key hotspots, alongside thermal drone operators from the Park Authority.
Low-lying cloud cover is preventing the proper dispersal of smoke at ground level, resulting in a widespread and often strong smell of smoke throughout the area and beyond.
Around 70 firefighters remain on the scene with nine fire appliances, specialist wildfire resources and Wildfire Tactical Advisors.
Firefighting is ongoing alongside partners and heavy machinery in the north and west of the incident, supported by helicopter waterbombing.
SFRS has said that a significant presence will remain in the area for some time to tackle the “complex and fluid incident”.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Please be assured that there is no immediate risk to public health, however we would always advise anyone affected by smoke to close their windows and doors as a precaution.
Cairngorms National Park“Road closures and cordons will remain in place while operations are ongoing – this is being reviewed regularly. We recognise the impact of these necessary restrictions on the community and any change will be communicated as quickly as possible.
“Please be aware that even though active firefighting might not be happening in a particular area, road closures and cordons will remain in place to allow access to heavy machinery and other operational work for the safety of the public.”
Speaking on Monday, Michael Humphreys, deputy assistant chief officer, said that the current plan is to take full advantage of the current conditions to “aggressively” tackle burning and prevent further opportunities to spread.
He added: “We cannot afford to be complacent, and we remain fully committed to this incident with significant resources in attendance from ourselves and partners.
“The current plan is to take full advantage of the current conditions to go into key areas and aggressively tackle the burning and prevent further opportunities for the fire to spread.
“This includes active firefighting with water, beaters and waterbombing, but also the continued creation of firebreaks, which have been effective throughout the incident in preventing spread.”
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