Scotland Battles Expanding Wildfires as Evacuations and Firefighting Efforts Intensify

Wildfires in Galloway and the Highlands continue to spread, fueled by unseasonably warm and dry conditions, with emergency services deploying helicopters and issuing public safety warnings.

The wildfire in Galloway, southern Scotland, has spread north into East Ayrshire, forcing evacuations of hikers and campers as flames reach Loch Doon.
Firefighters are using helicopters to drop water on the blaze, which has a fire front several miles wide and is visible from afar due to heavy smoke and flames.
A second wildfire in the Highlands near Ullapool, with a firewall stretching over 3 miles, is being battled by crews as smoke disrupts visibility and road access.
Scotland's fire services have issued warnings about the heightened wildfire risk, urging the public to avoid outdoor fires, barbecues, and improper disposal of cigarettes.
The National Fire Chiefs Council has called for long-term investment in fire services, linking the surge in wildfire activity to climate change and increased resource demands.