Fire service warns of extreme wildfire risk ahead of warm temperatures and wind this weekend

Fire chiefs are urging people across the north of Scotland to take the utmost care amidst an "extreme" risk of wildfires over the next few days.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning that fires could ignite and spread easily with warm temperatures and strong winds forecast.

The warning applies from tomorrow, Friday April 22 and lasts until Monday April 25.

• North, Central and West Scotland EXTREME Friday April 22 – Sunday April 24

• West Scotland EXTREME Monday April 25

Group commander Keith Langley, who is one of SFRS' wildfire tactical advisors, is urging the public to take the utmost care in the countryside.

He said: "The key issues over the next few days are sunshine, warm air temperatures, low humidity and moderate to strong winds.

"Dead grass, leaves, twigs and heather on the ground will dry quite quickly in these conditions and when ignited can burn very fast with extreme fire intensity.

"Please exercise caution outdoors to avoid fires breaking out and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame."

Wildfire danger assessments are made on behalf of the Scottish Wildfire Forum on a broad area basis.

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