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Mourne Mountains Blaze Rages: 52 Firefighters Battle Wildfire
26 Apr
Summary
- Wildfire engulfed about 10 hectares of vegetation on the Mourne Mountains.
- Fifty-two firefighters from across Northern Ireland responded to the blaze.
- A yellow wildfire warning was active across Northern Ireland when the fire started.
A significant wildfire ignited on the Mourne Mountains in County Down, prompting a large-scale response from emergency services. The blaze, which consumed roughly 10 hectares of vegetation, broke out on the Slievenaman Road in Newcastle. This incident took place as a yellow warning for wildfires was active across Northern Ireland, highlighting the heightened risk of such events.
Fifty-two firefighters from various stations throughout Northern Ireland were dispatched to combat the flames. Resources included six pumping appliances, a water tanker, an off-road vehicle, and a command unit, demonstrating the coordinated effort to manage the situation. While a substantial amount of vegetation was affected, fire crews successfully brought the blaze under control.
NIFRS Group Commander Peter Blaney noted that the area is prone to wildfires, having experienced similar incidents previously. In response to the fire, traffic diversions were implemented at the junction of Bryansford Road, Moyad Road, and Trassey Road. The public was advised to avoid the area to allow emergency services to operate effectively.
