Highland and Moray wildfires: ‘We’re finally seeing the tide turn’, say firefighters after tireless efforts and overnight rains
The tide is turning in the battle against major wildfires which have raged in the hills of the Highlands and Moray in recent days, firefighters have said.
Nairn’s Community Fire Station, whose crew have been among those fighting multiple blazes near Dava, Carrbridge, Dallas and Knockando, have revealed that the tireless efforts of crews and volunteers - plus a “much needed downpour” overnight - are having an impact.
And they “hope to see this continue” as efforts continue into a fourth day.
In an update released at 5.15am on Tuesday, the Nairn station said: “Multiple pumps and crews from across Scotland, gamekeepers, estate workers, and others, have come together in a tremendous team effort.
“Thanks to their hard work and the much needed downpour from the early evening through the night we’re finally seeing the tide turn. We hope to see this continue.
“A heartfelt thank you to all members of the public and local businesses who’ve generously provided food and water to the crews on the ground and at various stations throughout the region.
“You’ve no idea how much it means to the frontline teams those small acts of kindness go a very long way during long shifts in tough conditions.
“Your support keeps spirits high and energy up. Truly appreciated by everyone out there.
“Incredible resilience and coordination from all involved.”
At its peak, some of the blazes stretched for several miles, and plumes of smoke were even visible from space - with reports of smoke smells coming in as far afield as Thurso and even an oil rig worker in the North Sea.
Although the overnight rains and hard work of firefighters have had an impact on the blazes, travel sites were still showing several road closures in effect on Tuesday morning.
The AA’s online route planner was still showing closures to the A940, A939 and the B9007 at 6.45am on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s most recent incident-wide update, posted after 6pm on Monday, urged residents in affected areas to continue ensuring windows and doors are kept shut to prevent smoke entering their homes and businesses.
A spokesperson said; “We urge residents in the Grantown-on-Spey, Carrbridge, Aviemore, and Cairngorms areas to ensure their windows and doors are closed to prevent smoke from entering.
“Our firefighters continue to work tirelessly to tackle several wildfire incidents from Carrbridge in Highland to Dallas, outside Forres in Moray.
“A significant number of resources and special resources have been mobilised throughout the area.”