95 firefighters battle Mourne Mountains wildfires as Muir warns of ‘real and significant’ impact and risk to lives

Fire crews are set to remain on the ground in the Mourne Mountains throughout the week as Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed around 95 firefighters are tackling ongoing wildfires — with a government minister warning the destruction is “soul destroying” and poses a real risk to lives and communities.

The large-scale emergency response continues to focus on two major incidents at Ballagh Road in Newcastle and Sandbank Road in Hilltown, where fires that ignited over the weekend are still burning and requiring sustained firefighting operations.

Major operation continues with 95 firefighters deployed

In an update on Monday 27 April, NIFRS confirmed that significant resources remain committed to both wildfire sites, underlining the scale of the crisis.

“NIFRS is continuing to tackle wildfires in the Ballagh Road, Newcastle, and Sandbank Road, Hilltown, areas of the Mourne Mountains with approximately 95 Firefighters in attendance at both incidents.

“Firefighting operations are expected to continue across the week and so we are reiterating our appeal for the public to avoid these areas.”

The warning highlights the prolonged nature of the response, with crews expected to remain on scene for several days as they work to contain and fully extinguish the fires.

Minister: ‘Lives potentially at risk’ as fires devastate landscape

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has issued a stark warning about the consequences of the fires, describing the scenes unfolding across the Mournes as deeply distressing.

“It is soul destroying to see the Mournes ravaged again by wildfires during the first significant spell of sunshine this year. The impact of these fires is real and significant, with lives potentially at risk, communities in fear and natural habitats destroyed.”

He also paid tribute to the ongoing efforts of firefighters operating in difficult conditions.

“I am immensely grateful to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service for the sustained response in challenging conditions and would urge everyone to heed calls to stay away whilst firefighting continues.”

Wider wildfire activity across Northern Ireland

The Mourne incidents form part of a broader pattern of wildfire activity over the weekend.

NIFRS confirmed that firefighters also responded to a number of smaller wildfires in Belfast, Armagh, Lurgan and Rathfriland, pointing to heightened fire risk across multiple areas.

A weather warning for wildfires remains in place, with conditions continuing to favour ignition and rapid spread.

“As the weather warning for wildfires remains in place, NIFRS is reminding the public to stay vigilant to the risk of fire in the countryside. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately.”

Public urged to avoid Mournes as operations continue

Authorities have repeated calls for hill walkers, locals and visitors to stay away from affected areas while firefighting operations remain ongoing.

Access routes must be kept clear for emergency vehicles, while heavy smoke and unpredictable fire behaviour present serious hazards.

The appeal to avoid the Mournes remains in force as crews continue to manage the incidents.

Warning over rural arson and call for information

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir

Minister Muir also raised concerns about the potential for deliberate fire-setting, stressing that rural arson is a criminal offence.

“Rural arson is a crime, if anyone has any information on those deliberately lighting malicious fires in our countryside they should contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland or Crimestoppers anonymously without delay.”

He confirmed that the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is working alongside NIFRS, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), and other local organisations in a coordinated response.

“NIEA continues to engage with partner agencies like the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, PSNI and many other committed local organisations.”

Fire safety warning as risk remains high

With dry conditions persisting, both NIFRS and the Minister have issued clear guidance to prevent further outbreaks.

The public is urged to act responsibly in the countryside, particularly during periods of warm weather.

“I would urge everyone enjoying the good weather to act responsibly and follow the Countryside Code. Avoid open fires in the countryside, only use barbecues in designated areas and never leave them unattended. Ensure no litter is left behind, extinguish and dispose of all cigarettes and smoking materials properly.”

NIFRS has also reinforced that anyone who sees a fire must report it immediately by calling 999, and that fires which cannot be safely controlled should be left to emergency services.

Sustained pressure on emergency services

With nearly 100 firefighters deployed and operations expected to continue for days, the wildfires represent a significant and ongoing demand on emergency resources.

Authorities continue to stress that public cooperation — particularly avoiding affected areas and following fire prevention advice — will be critical to bringing the situation under control and preventing further damage to the Mourne landscape.

At a glance

• Around 95 firefighters tackling wildfires in the Mourne Mountains

• Major incidents ongoing at Ballagh Road, Newcastle and Sandbank Road, Hilltown

• Firefighting operations expected to continue throughout the week

• DAERA Minister warns impact is “real and significant” with lives at risk

• Communities affected and natural habitats destroyed

• Additional wildfires reported in Belfast, Armagh, Lurgan and Rathfriland

• Weather warning for wildfires remains in place

• Public urged to avoid affected areas and stay vigilant

• Rural arson warning issued with appeal for information

• Public advised to call 999 immediately if a fire is spotted