Cairngorms wildfire burns for third day across nearly four miles

A number of people in the local community had been calling for a helicopter to be brought in.The SFRS said there had been a request for a helicopter on Wednesday but none were available at the time.A helicopter has since been waterbombing the area.The SFRS has said the fire is still burning with flames continuing at a steady pace. Lynne Gow, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) area commander based in the Highlands, said the service had adequate resources in place."We're absolutely certain of our practical plan here," she said.The RSPB said approximately 300 hectares of land have been burned so far.The charity said 27 of its staff and volunteers were out helping fight the blaze earlier in the week, using equipment including all-terrain vehicles with water bowsers, backpack hoses and shovels.A strict cordon remains in place and people have been warned not to travel to the area or attempt to access Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich or the surrounding area while firefighting operations are ongoing.Parts of Scotland are at very high risk of wildfire over the next few days.The SFRS, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum, has issued wildfire warnings for the central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland.The alert, warning of a very high risk of wildfire, came into force on Wednesday and lasts until Monday.It follows days of hot and dry weather in many parts of the country.SFRS wildfire tactical adviser Kevin Dingwall urged the public to take "simple steps" to prevent fires from starting.He said: "Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant."Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That's why it's so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions."Earlier this week the Met Office released a report on the UK's climate, which said that weather once considered extreme was becoming the "new normal".Scientists say that the country's climate is "on the move" as northern areas of Britain now see warmer temperatures that used to only affect southern England.If you see a large outdoor fire, call 999 immediately. Give the location and any other relevant information so fire crews can respond quickly.