Issued by Police Scotland at 14:50 on Saturday 25 July 2026
A multi-agency response remains ongoing for the large fire within Cairngorms National Park.
Police Scotland declared a major incident on Friday, 24 July, 2026, following a change in the weather.
All properties in Nethy Bridge have since been evacuated. Properties in a small area north-west of Dorback Lodge (Lain Thatchan) are also being evacuated as a precaution.
Residents are being directed to the designated respite centre of MacDonald Aviemore Resort.
There are no current plans for further evacuations, however planning is in place with partners should the situation change and other nearby areas require to be evacuated.
Those who live in the affected areas and the areas that are currently being impacted by the spread of smoke, including Aberdeenshire and Moray, are asked to keep all windows and doors closed. Anyone with concerns should visit NHS Highland.
Enough heavy machinery and plant have now been identified and there is no further requirement for additional items at this time. Thank you to those who responded to the request.
Please continue to avoid the area while emergency services continue their operational response safely and effectively.
Superintendent Judy Hill said: “The situation in the Cairngorms National Park continues to present challenges to the emergency services. The wind has abated slightly compared to yesterday, but there remains a risk to the area of Nethy Bridge.
“Additional resources were deployed to the area and police have spoken to residents at every property in the exclusion zone. Some people attended the designated respite centre while others have made alternative arrangements. Those directly affected are being updated regarding when they may be able to return to their homes.
“I understand this remains a very concerning time for residents, businesses and visitors to the Cairngorms region. Please be assured that the multi-agency response remains fully committed to bringing this incident to a safe conclusion as quickly as possible.
“I would encourage people to turn to official sources for advice and information.”
Members of the public should continue to avoid the affected areas within the Cairngorms National Park. The area remains unsafe due to active firefighting operations, rapidly changing fire conditions and helicopter activity.
The following areas remain closed or subject to access restrictions:
• Paths around Glenmore, Loch Morlich and Badaguish.
• Low-level routes including the Old Logging Way and routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A' Bhuachaille, the Green Loch (Lochan Uaine), Strath Nethy and Bynack More.
• Paths within Abernethy Forest to the south of Forest Lodge towards Ryvoan Bothy.
Residents are urged to follow all advice issued by Police Scotland and emergency services.