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Scots urged to 'stay vigilant' as wildfire risk very high

News imageGetty Images A firefighter standing in front of a wildfire surrounded in smokeGetty Images
Firefighters tackled a wild blaze in Bonhill, West Dunbartonshire, in April this year

People in Scotland have been urged to "stay vigilant" over the coming week as the risk for wildfires is very high.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildlife Forum have issued a warning for central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland from Wednesday, lasting until next Monday.

Temperatures are expected to reach 28C on Wednesday around Fort William, with very dry weather forecast for the rest of the week especially in central and western areas.

Wildfires are already burning in other parts of the UK as firefighters face "extreme pressure" due to a prolonged heatwave.

Heatwaves occur when temperatures of 25C and above are recorded for three consecutive days - which is likely to happen in Scotland this week.

Scotland experienced its hottest day of the year at the end of June with a peak temperature of 31.2C recorded in Threave, Dumfries and Galloway

Conditions became so hot that gritters had to be deployed to spread sand over the main roads to try and reflect heat and cool the surface.

News imageRoad worker in orange high-visibility clothing standing beside a yellow gritting truck marked Spreading on a rural roadside with trees in the background.
Gritter driver Alistair Fisher said he had "funny looks" from people while spreading sand on the road

Major incidents were declared in Conwy, north Wales, and in Glossop, Derbyshire, on Sunday, with firefighters still tackling the flames on Tuesday.

Wildfires over the weekend also affected Hampshire, Durham, West Sussex, East Sussex, Devon and Somerset.

The Scottish fire service's wildfire tactical adviser, Kevin Dingwall, said that many people will be outdoors enjoying the weather this week and urged them to take "simple steps" to prevent fires from starting.

He said: "Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.

"Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That's why it's so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.

"Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.

"You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors."

If you see a large outdoor fire, call 999 immediately. Give the location and any other relevant information so fire crews can respond quickly.

Heatwave likely in Scotland this week