Full Breakdown
Wildfire Outbreaks on Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat and the Cairngorms, July 19 2024
7/20/2026, 12:42:45 AM
Core Event
On Sunday 19 July 2024, a blaze ignited below Salisbury Crags on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh at approximately 18:40, prompting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) to dispatch six fire appliances. Simultaneously, the large-scale wildfire that began on Wednesday in the Cairngorms National Park remained active, having burned roughly six square kilometres and forcing evacuations from Glenmore Forest Park, Abernethy, and nearby campsites. Police Scotland closed Queens Drive to traffic, and a high-volume pump drew water from Loch Morlich to support both incidents.
Operational Response
SFRS mobilised four to six appliances at Arthur’s Seat, supplemented by specialist resources such as all-terrain vehicles and two helicopters. In the Cairngorms, more than 100 firefighters, additional helicopters, and drone surveillance were employed to “surround” the fire. The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) reported that favourable weather—low wind and Saturday rainfall—allowed “marked improvements” in containment. Roadblocks and exclusion zones around Glenmore and the ski resort remained in place pending full extinguishment.
Official Statements & Responses
The SFRS confirmed “no reported casualties” at Arthur’s Seat and noted “encouraging signs across the affected area” over the weekend. CNPA expressed “growing optimism” about the combined ground and aerial efforts but stressed the situation remained live, with teams active on the ground. Both agencies indicated that future resource deployment would depend on weather conditions and fire behavior.
Verbatim Quotes
- “38pm on Sunday 19 July to reports of a fire in the open at Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.” — Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson
- “There are no reported casualties.” — Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson
- “Gavin Miles, director of planning and place at the park authority, said: “News from Glenmore this morning is very encouraging, with colleagues from SFRS indicating that the fire is now largely surrounded.” — Gavin Miles, director of planning and place, CNPA
- “We're really grateful for the continued efforts of everyone helping fight the fire in Glenmore, and for the cooperation of local residents, visitors and businesses at what I know is a very difficult time.” — Gavin Miles, CNPA
- “He added: "The SFRS has indicated that the fire is now largely surrounded.” — CNPA statement
- “encouraging signs across the affected area” — Scottish Fire and Rescue Service statement
Ongoing Situation
Both incidents remain active, with SFRS and CNPA monitoring fire lines and adjusting tactics as weather evolves. Public access to affected zones, including the Ski Road in Glenmore, is expected to stay restricted until authorities deem the areas safe for residents and visitors.
