A99 closed as wildfire spreads in Warth Hill area

A THIRD wildfire has been reported in Caithness in the space of 24 hours.

Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service is currently tackling the fire which is spreading in the Warth Hill area.

Police have closed the A99 just north of Freswick and are advising motorists to avoid the area with diversions in place via Canisbay. However, the road is not suitable for HGVs and buses.

The fire is currently spreading in a southerly direction and police are continuing to liaise with their partners in the fire service.

There are no homes at risk at present, but police say should the fire pose any risk to properties or residents then they may have to be evacuated.

Emergency services are also dealing with a heath fire at Killimster, while 1.5 square kilometres of whins and heather were burnt at Canisbay yesterday.