The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) warned on 26 May 2023 of a very high risk of wildfire in many parts of Scotland from that day until Monday 29 May1. The warning was released in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum and covers East, Central and Southern Scotland1.
The service said that at this time of year there is still a build-up of dead grass and heather left over from last year which can dry very quickly as temperatures increase and pose a heightened risk of fire1. People who live, work or visit rural areas are being urged to exercise caution over the next few days1.
SFRS Group Commander Niall MacLennan said that numerous wildfires across Scotland that spring, including a wildfire at Kinlochmoidart which spanned the course of three days, had shown how real the danger of fire is in the countryside and how damaging it can be to the environment, wildlife and nearby communities1. He said that with rising temperatures over the weekend and further dry conditions into the following week, wildfires could burn and spread with very high intensity in high-risk areas1.
"Therefore, it is crucial that people act responsibly when enjoying the outdoors and please think twice before using anything involving a naked flame."
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Why it matters for households
The warning applies to people who live, work or visit rural areas of East, Central and Southern Scotland, and runs until Monday 29 May1. The service points to dead grass and heather left from last year, which it says can dry very quickly as temperatures increase1. Its advice to the public is to exercise caution over the next few days and to think twice before using anything involving a naked flame1. The service also links the spring's wildfires, including the three-day fire at Kinlochmoidart, to damage to the environment, wildlife and nearby communities1. Further dry conditions were expected into the following week1. Practical guidance on risk and prevention is set out in the guide to wildfires and grass fires, within the wider heatwaves and drought section.
What happens next
The very high warning remains in place until Monday 29 May 20231. No further warning levels or later updates have been reported.
Wildfires and Grass Fires
