High risk of wildfires in Northern Ireland

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS), and Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) are urging the public to remain vigilant as warm, dry spring weather has heightened the risk of wildfires.

This appeal comes as NIFRS leads a multi-agency response to a significant wildfire in the Slieve Beagh area, County Tyrone.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir stated, “The ongoing fire near Clogher is a stark reminder of how quickly wildfires can spread, threatening lives, property, and causing serious environmental damage. The fire has devastated about a third of a vital protected area, which includes a Special Area of Conservation for the endangered Hen Harrier during nesting season, along with important blanket bog habitat.”

NIFRS Area Commander Barry Ross added, “With dry weather persisting, we ask the public to support firefighters by staying fire-safe in the countryside. Tackling wildfires is not only physically demanding for our crews but also drains resources across multiple agencies. If you’re out enjoying the weather, please act responsibly and follow our safety advice.”

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson warned, “Gorse fires can cause widespread environmental damage, threaten homes, farms, and wildlife, and put lives at risk — including those of emergency responders. Deliberately setting wildfires is a criminal offence. If you witness anyone starting a fire, report it immediately. Offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The public is urged to act responsibly:
– Do not light any fires in the countryside.
– Park considerately to avoid blocking emergency vehicle access.
– If you see a fire, do not attempt to tackle it — contact NIFRS immediately.

Additional caution is advised for agricultural activities. Machinery operators should ensure equipment is well maintained, with proper heat insulation to prevent accidental fires. Farmers and landowners are reminded that the prescribed burning window is now closed.

Meanwhile, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is appealing to people not to light fires or barbecues in public places during the ongoing dry spell.

A Status Orange High Forest Fire Risk Warning has been introduced for Ireland and will remain in place until midday on Monday.

A number of gorse fires have been reported across Ireland in recent days including in The Burren in Clare, Knockatallon in Monaghan, and Clogher in Tyrone.

Authorities are advising landowners and the public to avoid all outdoor fires and open ignition sources.

The NPWS says it has increased ground crews on fire patrol and has ramped up aerial monitoring this week.

According to the NPWS, “Wildfires like the recent ones in Wild Nephin in County Mayo are a devastating reminder of how fragile our natural world is. This destruction not only scars the landscape, destroys habitats and species but also deprives communities of cherished spaces for education, recreation, and connection with nature.”