High wildfire risk in Moray as warm weekend forecast
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THE risk of wildfires in Moray is "very high" for this weekend.
The wildfire danger assessment has been issued by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) today in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum.
These surface fires could burn and spread with moderate to high intensity over Saturday and Sunday.
In Moray, Easter Ross and Inverness-shire, there could be very high fire intensity with wind speeds the highest on Saturday.
Area commander Bruce Farquharson, the SFRS wildfire lead, said: "We are in the height of summer and with the warm forecast for the weekend it could bring with it the potential for wildfires, which can devastate vast areas of land and wildlife.
"As always, we would urge people who live within the high risk regions to be extremely careful.
"Please act safely and responsibly if you are out and about over the next few days."
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is urging anyone thinking of visiting a local forest to observe wildfire prevention guidance and avoid putting the emergency services under unnecessary pressure.
Graeme Prest, FLS north region manager, said: "It’s looking like it’s going to be an exceptional weekend and we’re expecting a lot of people to be out and about.
"But with conditions as they are at the moment, everyone should be aware of the heightened fire risk and take extra care to not carry out any activity that might risk starting a wildfire.
"That extra bit of caution not only protects Scotland’s forests but also avoids placing undue demands on our blue-light services – and could also save lives."
Many wildfires are avoidable incidents and are often the result of irresponsible behaviour – whether it is discarding cigarettes, littering or lighting campfires or barbecues in the wrong places.
The impact can be devastating and have significant, long-term consequences for wildlife, often over many years.
