Scotland: Firefighters tackling wild blaze in West Lothian Helicopter Deployed / photo

Fire crews are continuing their efforts to contain a major wildfire that erupted in West Lothian, Scotland, with up to 50 firefighters still battling the blaze nearly 24 hours after the initial emergency call.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the fire, which spans approximately 40,000 square metres—roughly five-and-a-half football pitches—was first reported at 11:43 on May 10, Caliber.Az reports, citing UK media.

Nine appliances and several specialist units, including a helicopter equipped to drop water, were dispatched to tackle the flames in the heavily wooded area.

Residents living nearby have been urged to keep their windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke drifting from the scene.

The wildfire comes as much of mainland Scotland remains under an “extreme” wildfire risk warning, issued due to the continued spell of dry and warm weather. The SFRS has reiterated calls for the public to exercise extreme caution when using naked flames in the countryside.

“Dry conditions significantly increase the likelihood of wildfires, and we’re urging everyone to avoid lighting fires or discarding cigarettes and matches carelessly,” said an SFRS spokesperson.

The wider environmental picture is also raising concern. A recent report from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) highlights widespread water scarcity due to low rainfall. Rivers across Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish Borders, Firth of Forth, Firth of Tay, and Aberdeenshire are experiencing falling water levels. Water shortages are also being reported around the Black Isle and Thurso.

Authorities are reminding the public of the devastating impacts wildfires can have—not just on wildlife and the environment—but also on agriculture and local rural communities. They are calling for greater awareness of how simple actions, like discarding a lit cigarette or lighting a barbecue, can trigger destructive consequences.

By Khagan Isayev