Forestry and Land Scotland warns Highland residents of 'extreme risk of wildfire' amid rising temperatures

HIGHLANDERS have been warned that there is an "extreme risk" of wildfires in northern Scotland – as gorgeous weather sends the mercury soaring.

The region recorded the UK's hottest temperature of the year so far on Monday – even outstripping tourist hot spots in the Mediterranean – and, with even more cloud-free skies across many parts of the region on Tuesday, there's a strong possibility that today could be warmer still.

But the warm, settled, dry spell has also led to a heightened wildfire risk.

And Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has urged residents and visitors to take extra care to avoid wildfires breaking out.

Related: Highlands hotter than the Mediterranean after recording warmest day of year

A spokesman for the FLS said: "There is an extreme risk of wildfire in southern, central and northern Scotland until Saturday.

"Find out more wildfire guidance and information online: http://forestryandland.gov.scot/wildfire."

They urged people to respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors responsibly during this period of heightened risk.

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