Cairngorms wildfire risk remains high as MSPs prepare for update

A warning has been issued that another devastating wildfire could occur in the Cairngorms this year, as the ground remains a "tinderbox" despite the summer blaze being under control. The alert comes ahead of a ministerial statement to MSPs on Thursday. Justice Secretary Neil Gray will update parliament on the wildfires, including the Cairngorms fire that began July 15 and burned 10 square miles, requiring over 500 firefighters at its peak. Lib Dem MSP Andrew Baxter said conditions remain dangerously dry, and he criticized the government's response as a "failed" test of lessons from the 2025 Dava fire. Baxter cited fire service funding and resource shortages, suggesting the service is "20 years behind" in wildfire response, and urged greater willingness to seek UK military help. SNP MSP Laura Mitchell called for better equipment and PPE for retainer firefighters, emphasizing prevention and proper preparation.