Extreme wildfire alert issued for central and southwest Scotland

Scotland is facing an "extreme risk" of wildfires this week due to rising temperatures and dry conditions. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has issued major wildfire alerts for low-lying areas, particularly on Friday. This follows a "very high" danger warning for areas in central and south-west Scotland on Thursday. Historically, the period between March and May sees an increase in wildfires in Scotland. This is largely due to dry weather and more people spending time outdoors. The SFRS notes that there are vast areas of dry vegetation, which can easily catch fire. The service warns that human activities are often the cause of wildfires. Common issues include careless disposal of cigarettes, leaving barbecues unattended, and improperly extinguished campfires. A single spark can ignite a fire that lasts for days and could severely damage land, wildlife, and nearby communities. Group Commander Murray Dalgleish emphasizes the need for the public to exercise caution. He points out that rural communities can suffer greatly from wildfires that threaten livestock and wildlife. Such fires also contribute to environmental damage and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Last year saw a decrease in wildfires, with only 48 incidents reported by August. This number is significantly lower than previous years, attributed to a very wet spring. In 2023, 145 wildfires occurred, compared to previous years with similar averages around that figure.