A stark warning has been issued by firefighters as Scotland faces an “extreme” risk of wildfires over the next week. With recent incidents already testing fire crews, authorities are urging the public to take extra precautions and avoid lighting fires outdoors.
Fires Erupt as Scotland Faces Dry Spell
Firefighters battled a major blaze in the Kilpatrick Hills near Glasgow on Tuesday, a region that has already seen repeated fire outbreaks this year. Meanwhile, in Banchory, Aberdeenshire, a deliberate gorse fire required emergency response between 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the event has only heightened concerns about the escalating wildfire risk.
This is the third wildfire warning issued by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) in 2024 as unseasonably warm and dry conditions create a dangerous environment. Scotland saw its warmest day of the year so far on Monday, with temperatures soaring to 20C.
Why Scotland’s Wildfire Risk Is So High
Group Commander Garry Douglas explained that Scotland’s geography and climate make it especially prone to wildfires during dry spells.
- Fires spread much faster uphill than on flatter ground, making hilly areas particularly vulnerable.
- “Micro-climates” within valleys can dry out vegetation at a rapid rate, creating an ideal fuel source.
- Stronger afternoon winds can fan flames, making early-morning calm deceptive.
Douglas emphasized that many of these fires are preventable. “Human behaviour is the cause of most wildfires in Scotland,” he said, urging people to act responsibly while enjoying the countryside.
Unpredictable Conditions Making Firefighting Harder
One of the biggest challenges for fire crews is how quickly conditions can change. “Wildfires are extremely difficult to deal with because they can be so unpredictable with the weather,” Douglas noted. Morning calm can quickly turn to afternoon chaos as temperatures rise and winds pick up.
April has started dry and sunny, but forecasts suggest slightly cooler, milder weather over the weekend. Still, even a brief hot spell can significantly increase wildfire risks.
How This Week’s Fire Risk Compares
According to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS), Scotland is seeing a very high to extreme risk of wildfires, with nearly all areas affected by Monday, April 7. The risk level is expected to increase even further, covering nearly the entire country in the highest warning category.
| Date | Wildfire Risk Level | Affected Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Wed, April 2 | Very High – Extreme | South, North East, West Coast |
| Mon, April 7 | Extreme (Widespread) | Almost Entire Country |
Public Urged to Take Extra Care
Authorities are stressing the importance of public cooperation to prevent avoidable wildfires. With “bone-dry vegetation” covering vast areas of the countryside, even a small spark can lead to devastating consequences. Firefighters are asking people to:
- Avoid lighting any outdoor fires until at least next week.
- Properly dispose of cigarettes and glass bottles, which can ignite dry grass.
- Be mindful of campfires and barbecues in rural areas.
Scotland’s natural landscape and wildlife are at stake, along with farms and rural communities. As temperatures fluctuate, fire crews will remain on high alert, but much depends on whether the public takes the warnings seriously.
