UK wildfires trigger evacuations, road closures across Scotland, Wales, England

A series of wildfires have erupted across the United Kingdom in recent weeks. In South Wales, a blaze near Blaenavon has burnt around 80 hectares of bracken and gorse, with smoke drifting as far as Caerphilly and Cardiff. Scotland has been battling fires in the Cairngorms National Park’s Glenmore area and on Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat, while North Wales reports six active fires at locations such as Hope Mountain, Brymbo and the Rhinogydd mountains.

Emergency services have issued a "very high" wildfire risk warning for the Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland, extending the alert until Friday. More than 100 firefighters, specialist wildfire units, aerial water‑bombing helicopters and live‑streaming drone footage are being used to contain the flames. Road closures include the A628 Woodhead Pass in the Peak District and numerous local access restrictions. The public has been urged to stay indoors, keep windows closed, avoid open fires and follow guidance from fire and health officials. Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney visited the Cairngorms fire site to thank crews and underscore the multi‑agency response.