Wildfire in the Highlands

The Highlands made national headlines in 2025 when a wildfire burning across Dava Moor and the Carrbridge area became the first fire in UK history to be officially classified as a “mega fire”.

The term “mega fire” is used internationally to describe exceptionally large wildfires that exceed 10,000 hectares in size. The Highland blaze surpassed that threshold, burning through vast areas of peatland, moorland and forest, making it the largest wildfire ever recorded in the United Kingdom.

For several days, firefighters, land managers and emergency services battled challenging conditions as the fire spread across remote terrain. Smoke travelled for many miles, affecting communities across the Highlands and Moray, while road closures and public safety warnings were issued as crews worked to contain the incident.

Scientists studying the event have described it as a significant turning point for wildfire risk in Scotland. Unlike many previous wildfires that primarily affected dry surface vegetation, this fire burned across extensive peatland areas. Peat soils can store large amounts of carbon built up over thousands of years, and when they burn, recovery can take decades.

Researchers found that unusually dry conditions played a major role in the fire’s behaviour. The fire spread rapidly through vegetation that would normally retain more moisture, allowing flames to move across the landscape with an intensity rarely seen in the UK.

The event has prompted renewed discussion about wildfire preparedness, land management and climate resilience. Scotland experienced its most severe wildfire season on record during 2025, with emergency services responding to hundreds of wildfire incidents across the country.

For Highland communities, the Dava Moor mega fire serves as a reminder that wildfires are no longer a threat confined to other parts of the world. Extended dry periods, warmer temperatures and changing weather patterns mean that large-scale wildfires are becoming an increasingly important resilience issue for rural communities, landowners and emergency responders alike.

While the Highlands have always faced the risk of vegetation fires, the UK’s first recorded mega fire demonstrated how quickly a wildfire can escalate under the right conditions. Awareness, prevention and early reporting remain some of the most effective tools in reducing the risk of future incidents.

Wildfires are a very real risk across the Highlands particularly during dry, warm, or windy conditions.

A wildfire is any uncontrolled fire in the open environment, typically involving grass, heather, woodland, or peatland. Unlike controlled burns, wildfires spread freely and can change direction quickly, making them unpredictable and dangerous.

They can start from something as small as a discarded cigarette, an unattended campfire, or even sparks from machinery and once established, they can escalate rapidly.

 

Wildfires pose a serious threat to:

  • People and communities
  • Wildlife and livestock
  • Homes, crofts, and infrastructure
  • Peatland and natural habitats
  • Why wildfires are a risk in the Highlands

The landscape itself plays a role. Large areas of moorland, forestry, and peat especially when dry can act as fuel. Add wind and warm temperatures, and fires can spread quickly over long distances.

Many wildfires are not accidental in the traditional sense they are often linked to careless or avoidable behaviour.

Simple actions can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting:

  • Never discard cigarette ends unless they are fully extinguished
  • Avoid lighting fires or barbecues in the countryside during dry or windy weather
  • Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times
  • Only carry out muirburn during the permitted season and in line with guidance
  • Report unsafe or reckless behaviour involving fire.

If you ever see a fire in the countryside no matter how small call 999 immediately, providing a What3Word location can be extremely helpful to SFRS. Early reporting can prevent a much larger incident. SFRS would much rather the public call them even if they believe they have put a fire out. 

Protecting your home and property

If you live in a rural or semi-rural area, preparation is key. One of the most effective steps is creating a defensible space, often referred to as a safety zone.

This means managing the area around your home to reduce anything that could fuel a fire.

Key steps include:

  • Keeping grass short and well maintained around buildings
  • Removing dry vegetation, wood piles, and debris
  • Clearing space around fuel tanks and outbuildings
  • Ensuring access routes are clear for emergency vehicles
  • Making sure your house name or number is clearly visible from the road

A well-maintained space doesn’t stop a wildfire entirely but it can slow its spread and give firefighters a better chance to protect your property.

Even though wildfires may feel unlikely, having a plan in place can make a real difference

  • Know how you and your household would leave safely if needed
  • Agree a meeting point and ensure everyone understands the plan
  • Consider how pets and livestock would be managed
  • Speak with neighbours about shared access and support

Preparation helps reduce panic and ensures a quicker, safer response if a fire occurs nearby.

 

During a wildfire

  • Stay indoors if advised, or leave early if instructed to do so
  • Keep away from the fire area and avoid unnecessary travel
  • Follow guidance from emergency services, including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
  • Never attempt to tackle a wildfire yourself

Wildfires can move faster than expected and conditions can change quickly.

After a wildfire, even after the flames are out, risks can remain:

  • Hot spots may still be present
  • Structures or trees may be unstable
  • Smoke and air quality may still be a concern

Follow official advice before returning to affected areas.

 

A shared responsibility

Preventing wildfires is not just the role of emergency services it relies on awareness and responsible behaviour from everyone using and living in the countryside.

Taking small precautions helps protect communities, landscapes, and wildlife across the Highlands.