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Firefighters are currently combating multiple wildfires in Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains area, with significant efforts focused near Slieve Donard. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the affected regions to allow emergency services to operate safely and effectively. Among the active fire sites are Sandbank Road in Hilltown and Chimney Rock Mountain in Newcastle, where teams are working diligently to contain the blazes.
Ryan Thompson, an area commander with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), explained on BBC Radio Ulster’s Evening Extra that the fire at Chimney Rock is moving toward Slieve Donard and poses a serious risk of spreading further into the larger Mournes region. He emphasized, “Our crews are working tirelessly there at the moment to stop it spreading onto Donard and to stop it spreading into the wider Mournes area.” The challenging terrain at Chimney Rock complicates access, while favorable weather conditions and shifting winds have accelerated the fire’s growth. At one point, around 45 firefighters confronted a 600-metre front at Chimney Rock.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has also made an urgent appeal for visitors to avoid areas including Bloody Bridge, Head Road, and the Mournes generally. Sgt Kenny Gracey highlighted the dangers involved, saying, “I can’t stress highly enough how important it is for visitors to stay clear of the Mournes area until these fires are dealt with.” He noted that public presence could endanger individuals, hinder emergency responders, and divert resources needed elsewhere. Visitors are reminded to take precautions such as properly extinguishing cigarettes and BBQs, refraining from lighting open fires, and avoiding littering, especially glass bottles.
The origin of these wildfires remains a concern. Martin McMullan, a coordinator for the Mourne Mountain Rescue team, pointed out the fires over the weekend “definitely didn’t look like they started from a recreational source.” In response to suggestions that there are no consequences for those responsible, Environment Minister Andrew Muir countered that arsonists could face imprisonment but stressed the need for public cooperation to assist law enforcement. When asked about the feasibility of patrolling vulnerable areas during high-risk periods, Muir explained that the extensive size of regions like the Mournes and the Sperrins makes continuous patrols impossible. Instead, the PSNI continues to investigate the incidents. Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs recently released a wildfire action plan outlining coordinated efforts to reduce fire risks and improve resilience against such threats
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