A large wildfire has broken out on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, sending huge plumes of smoke billowing over the city and prompting urgent warnings to the public.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that crews are on scene this afternoon tackling the blaze, which has spread across the iconic hill in Holyrood Park, a short distance from Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Witnesses reported seeing people running to safety as the fire advanced. The cause of the blaze is not yet known.
Public Safety Warning
Police Scotland has urged both motorists and pedestrians to avoid the area while emergency services work to contain the flames.
Arthur’s Seat, a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offers panoramic views of the city and is normally busy during the summer months.
The incident comes during one of Edinburgh’s busiest periods, with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and other major events drawing large crowds, alongside an influx of visitors for two sold-out Oasis reunion concerts at Murrayfield Stadium over the weekend.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the hot, dry weather contributed to the fire, and no injuries have been reported so far.
