SFRS issues fourth warning in three weeks as Scotland faces 'extreme' risk of wildfires

The warning runs until Saturday, but could be extended as the dry conditions continue.

Members of the public are again being cautioned that even the smallest fire can spread with great speed and intensity and can devastate large areas.

North west Highland has been given a ‘very high’ warning, while all other areas of Scotland face an ‘extreme’ rating.

An increased risk of wildfires began yesterday (Thursday) and runs until tomorrow (Saturday) but this could be subject to change as the weather shows no signs of changing.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is warning that many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage.

SFRS Group Commander Niall MacLennan said: “We are urging the public not to light disposable barbecues or campfires in areas where there is vegetation, much of which is tinder dry or to discard cigarettes carelessly.

"As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire. The recent wildfire incidents at Cannich and Daviot, near Inverness and Campsie Fells, just north of Glasgow show just how large these fires can become.

“It would only take a small ignition on dry vegetation to cause a wildfire at this time of year.

“Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code if you're heading into the countryside this weekend as the wildfire warning continues."