On Sunday afternoon, August 10, 2025, a fire erupted on Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s renowned dormant volcano.
The blaze quickly spread across the grassy hill, sending smoke billowing across the city.
Fortunately, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) contained the fire by evening, and no injuries were reported.
This incident occurred during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, a time when many visitors flock to the city. As a result, police urged people to avoid the area for safety.
Likely Human-Caused Fire
According to SFRS Group Commander Neil MacLennan, the fire was likely caused by human activity, though the exact cause is still under investigation.
Notably, a deliberate act has not been ruled out.
“Wildfires rarely start naturally in the UK,” he explained.
“This was probably due to human actions.”
Moreover, a dry summer in Scotland has heightened wildfire risks. For instance, a similar fire in 2019 burned 880 square meters of gorse on Arthur’s Seat.
Why Wildfires Start
Hot, dry weather dries out grass and plants, making them highly flammable. In fact, most UK wildfires stem from human errors, such as discarding glass bottles that focus sunlight or leaving litter that catches fire easily.
Therefore, the SFRS advises against lighting fires, barbecues, or dropping cigarettes in dry areas.
About Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat, a 251-meter hill in Holyrood Park, sits near Edinburgh’s Old Town. Loved for its stunning city views, this ancient volcano might be named after King Arthur’s Camelot or the Gaelic “Ard-na-Said” (Height of Arrows).
Stopping Wildfires
With wildfires on the rise due to dry weather and climate change, prevention is crucial.
Consequently, the SFRS encourages everyone to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, avoid lighting fires, and dispose of litter properly. Recent fires in the Highlands and West Lothian further highlight the growing risk.
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