Wildfire warning in place until Thursday across parts of Highlands and Islands
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Fire chiefs have issued a warning over a risk of wildfire in parts of the Highlands and Islands, including Caithness and Sutherland, lasting until Thursday.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is urging people who live within or who may enter rural environments to exercise caution to help lower the chance of a fire starting.
An "extreme" warning applies to some areas, including parts of the north-west Highlands and the Western Isles.
Wildfires have the potential to burn for days and devastate vast areas of land and wildlife, threatening the welfare of nearby communities.
SFRS area commander Bruce Farquharson said: "We are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame.
"Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage.
"Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires, as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities.
"These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.
"Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code."
