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Wildfires Sweep Through Southern Scotland, Prompting Emergency Response

A significant wildfire has erupted in the forests of southern Scotland, prompting a swift reaction from emergency services, with authorities advising the public to avoid the affected area.

First responders were dispatched to Glentrool in Galloway around 11:50 PM on Friday night, and fire crews continued their efforts into Saturday afternoon to bring the blaze under control.

According to Police Scotland, the wildfire is anticipated to reach the Loch Doon vicinity in East Ayrshire around midnight.

Helicopters are actively participating in firefighting efforts, targeting flames that have also impacted Merrick Hill, Ben Yellary, and Loch Dee. Currently, one fire appliance from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is engaged at the site.

Earlier in the week, another wildfire occurred in the same region on Thursday, covering approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km).

On Wednesday, firefighting teams responded to a large grass fire at Gartur Moss located in Port of Menteith, Stirling.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued a statement emphasizing the necessity for “long-term and sustained investment” in the face of the climate crisis, particularly as fire services contend with increasing demands amid a surge in wildfires across the UK.

Statistics indicate that a total of 286 wildfires have occurred in the UK this year, surpassing the count from the same time frame in 2022 by over 100 incidents. The previous year was marked by extreme temperatures and a record number of wildfires.

NFCC officials have cautioned the government that ongoing budget constraints make it challenging to manage the “substantial increases in wildfires” effectively.

Phil Garrigan, chairman of the NFCC, commented: “Climate change is undeniably contributing to heightened extreme weather events, including wildfires. Addressing these fires necessitates substantial resources over extended periods, which places strain on other emergency service operations.”

“The escalating threats to community resilience demand that fire and rescue services are equipped to respond, which requires enduring and strategic financial support. Ensuring the safety of our communities depends on this,” Garrigan added.

Fire services across Scotland, Wales, and England have issued warnings against the use of barbecues and campfires in open areas this weekend, encouraging the public to dispose of cigarettes responsibly.

Source
www.theguardian.com