Homes evacuated as firefighters battle 'large-scale' wildfire at Cairngorms National Park

Homes have been evacuated with firefighters battling a large-scale blaze in the Cairngorms National Park.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene of the fire in the open near Glenmore before noon on Wednesday.

A number of homes and businesses have been evacuated as a safety precaution due to the close proximity to the incident.

Fire crews from six appliances and additional specialist resources remain on scene, as crews work with landowners to contain the incident and create fire breaks.

Road closures are in place, and people are asked to avoid the area within Glenmore Forest Park and Loch Morlich on Thursday as the incident continues.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Ian McMeekin said: “We have adequate resources committed to this incident, and our operational response will be scaled back overnight during hours of darkness to monitor conditions.

“However, we anticipate being on scene for a considerable time to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”

It comes amid a “very high risk” wildfire warning for the area and parts of southern and eastern Scotland from Wednesday until Monday.

Scotland is experiencing warm weather across the country, with long spells of sunshine and temperatures climbing into the high 20s later in the week.

A Police Scotland statement read: “Emergency services continue to respond to a large fire in the open near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park, reported around 11.50am on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

“A number of properties and premises in the area have been evacuated as a precaution.

“The C7 road, known locally as Ski Road, has been closed.

“Anyone walking in the Cairngorms should avoid the area and let family or friends know when they have returned.

“Nearby residents are asked to keep windows and doors closed.”

The national park added: “If you are aware of someone hiking in the area, please ask them to get themselves safely off any surrounding hills as soon as possible.”