Drones equipped with thermal imaging technology are helping authorities detect and monitor underground wildfire hotspots, reducing the risk of fires reigniting and highlighting the growing role of advanced aerial technologies in environmental management and disaster response.
The initiative comes after an extensive wildfire swept through Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, burning roughly 3,300 hectares in July. Drone pilots are conducting surveys to identify subsurface hotspots that can cause wildfires to reignite, enabling teams to target resources more effectively.
How thermal imaging technology identifies subsurface wildfire hotspots
Even after visible signs of a wildfire have been extinguished, experts say smouldering pockets of underground heat can remain. Thermal drones help ground crews locate these hidden hotspots so they can be safely extinguished before they spread.
Pete Short, a drone pilot interviewed by BBC News, said that although there were no visible signs of fire on the surface, he identified eight subsurface hotspots during a single flight. Drone pilots have continued conducting regular surveys since the main fires were extinguished.
Thermal imaging technology helps focus resources where they are needed most. When a hotspot is identified, it is reported so that personnel can take action to prevent further spread. By pinpointing affected areas, drones help managers deploy personnel more efficiently, saving time and reducing the risk of new outbreaks.
The role of drones during active firefighting operations
Park authorities also confirmed that drones were deployed during active firefighting operations in Cairngorms National Park.
In addition to identifying subsurface hotspots, drones equipped with infrared and thermal cameras can detect problem areas through thick smoke. These unmanned aerial vehicles can map fire edges, track wind and flame direction, and measure how quickly fires spread.
Streaming this information in real time helps commanders and ground crews identify hazards and deploy firefighters and other resources more safely and effectively.
Supporting long-term environmental monitoring
Beyond providing real-time intelligence and detecting residual heat, the project is also using thermal drones to support ongoing environmental monitoring. Authorities say drone pilots follow monthly and annual flight paths to capture landscape imagery.
The resulting data helps conservation teams monitor vegetation recovery and assess how ecosystems respond over time following wildfires. Aerial views above tree canopies can also help identify potential outbreaks earlier and support prevention efforts.
Experts believe the project demonstrates how drone technology is evolving beyond traditional surveying and imagery. By combining thermal imaging, automated flight capabilities and data collection, organisations can support wildfire management, environmental protection and public safety initiatives.
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