Scottish authorities declared a “major incident” after a wildfire continued to burn through the Cairngorms National Park in the Highlands, prompting evacuations and a large-scale firefighting response. The fire, which has been active for 10 days, has scorched approximately 600 hectares (1,500 acres) of heather and brush in the mountainous area west of Aberdeen.

More than 500 firefighters have been deployed alongside helicopters to contain the blaze. Officials advised residents in and around the Highland village of Nethy Bridge, home to about 650 people, to evacuate as a precautionary measure. Authorities also ordered evacuations in other remote nearby areas on Saturday morning due to the ongoing threat posed by the wildfire.

Scottish First Minister John Swinney, who chaired a crisis meeting on Friday evening, described the firefighting efforts as “complex and difficult.” In a social media update on Saturday, he noted a “welcome change in wind direction overnight,” which had lessened the immediate danger to Nethy Bridge.

Despite these developments, local residents expressed frustration about the sudden evacuation orders. John McGlinchey, a resident of the area, said he was disappointed that many were being asked to leave only once the fire had approached near their homes.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also issued health advisories, recommending that people living close to the fire keep windows and doors closed to reduce smoke exposure.

The Cairngorms, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and mountain landscapes, have faced increasing risks from wildfires in recent years, driven by dry conditions and heat. Firefighters continue to work to contain the blaze amid concerns over shifting weather and ongoing fuel for the fire.