West Dunbartonshire is under an "extreme" risk of wildfire from today, according to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The warning is in place for the whole of West Dunbartonshire and most of mainland Scotland.

It's the fourth wildfire warning in Scotland in three weeks, as high temperatures continue to be hazardous.

Members of the public are being cautioned that even the smallest fire can spread with great speed and intensity and can devastate large areas.

An increased risk of wildfires begins today (Thursday, June 15) and runs until Saturday, June 17 – however could be extended further as the warm weather continues.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is warning that many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage.

Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter: The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's wildfire risk map, issued on June 15 (Image: SFRS)The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's wildfire risk map, issued on June 15 (Image: SFRS) (Image: SFRS)

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's wildfire risk map, issued on June 15 (Image: SFRS)

SFRS group commander Niall MacLennan said: “We are urging the public not to light disposable barbecues or campfires in areas where there is vegetation, much of which is tinder dry or to discard cigarettes carelessly.

"As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire. The recent wildfire incidents at Cannich and Daviot, near Inverness and Campsie Fells, just north of Glasgow show just how large these fires can become.

“It would only take a small ignition on dry vegetation to cause a wildfire at this time of year.

“Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code if you're heading into the countryside this weekend as the wildfire warning continues."

Information on how to prevent these fires can be found on the SFRS website.