Mourne Mountains wildfire extinguished after burning 1,000 hectares as second blaze continues with 50 firefighters on scene

A major wildfire in the Mourne Mountains that scorched an estimated 1,000 hectares has now been brought under control after a prolonged emergency response involving more than 80 firefighters, while crews remain locked in an ongoing battle against a second large blaze in Hilltown.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed the Ballagh Road fire in Newcastle — one of the most significant incidents over the weekend — was fully dealt with by 10.08am on Tuesday 28 April, following an initial emergency call at 6.44pm on Saturday 25 April.

Scale of Ballagh Road wildfire revealed as investigation points to deliberate ignition

The true scale of the Ballagh Road blaze has now emerged, with NIFRS confirming the fire expanded across approximately 1,000 hectares at its peak — a vast stretch of upland terrain within the Mourne Mountains.

More than 80 firefighters were deployed at the height of the operation to contain and extinguish the fire, underlining the intensity and rapid spread of the blaze once it took hold.

Crucially, the cause of the wildfire is now believed to have been deliberate ignition, raising the prospect of criminal investigation and adding to concerns about the ongoing risk of rural arson.

The incident was officially brought under control on Tuesday morning, marking the end of a sustained multi-day response in challenging conditions.

Second wildfire continues to burn as crews tackle 500m fire front

While one major incident has been resolved, firefighting operations remain active at Sandbank Road in Hilltown, where crews are continuing to confront a significant and ongoing wildfire.

Approximately 50 firefighters are currently deployed at the scene, working to contain a fire front stretching over 500 metres.

The scale of the active fire line highlights the continued challenge facing emergency services and the surrounding landscape, with operations expected to continue throughout the day.

NIFRS has issued a renewed appeal for the public to stay away from the area to ensure firefighter safety and allow emergency access routes to remain clear.

Weather warning keeps wildfire risk at elevated levels

Despite progress at Ballagh Road, the wider threat has not subsided. A weather warning for wildfires remains in place across Northern Ireland, with conditions still conducive to ignition and rapid fire spread.

This sustained risk has prompted fresh warnings from NIFRS urging vigilance from anyone visiting or travelling through rural areas.

The service has reinforced that any sighting of fire must be reported immediately by calling 999, ensuring rapid response to prevent further escalation.

Public safety and prevention guidance issued as risk persists

Alongside operational updates, NIFRS has reiterated comprehensive fire prevention advice aimed at reducing the likelihood of further incidents during the current spell of dry weather.

The public is urged to avoid using open fires in the countryside, as even small flames can quickly escalate out of control in dry conditions.

Cigarettes and smoking materials must be fully extinguished and never discarded on the ground or thrown from car windows, where they can ignite dry vegetation.

Barbecues should only be used in safe, designated areas and must never be left unattended. Users are reminded to ensure they are completely extinguished and cold before disposal.

People are also advised not to leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland, as these can contribute to fire risk, and to dispose of waste responsibly in bins or by taking it home.

Parking responsibly is also critical, with drivers urged to ensure emergency vehicles can access affected areas without obstruction.

Parents are advised to keep children away from lighters, matches, and open flames, while anyone encountering a fire that cannot be controlled with a bucket of water should leave the area immediately.

NIFRS has reiterated that any fires must be reported without delay by calling 999, while anyone who witnesses deliberate fire-setting should report it to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Sustained demand on emergency services as vigilance remains critical

The combined scale of the Mourne incidents — with one fire burning across 1,000 hectares and another still actively spreading — highlights the significant pressure placed on firefighting resources over recent days.

Although progress has been made, the ongoing Hilltown operation and continued wildfire warning underline the fragile nature of the situation, with authorities emphasising that public behaviour will play a decisive role in preventing further outbreaks.

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At a glance

• Ballagh Road wildfire in Mourne Mountains has been extinguished

• Fire burned approximately 1,000 hectares of land

• More than 80 firefighters were deployed at peak of operation

• Incident began at 6.44pm on Saturday 25 April

• Fire brought under control by 10.08am on Tuesday 28 April

• Cause believed to be deliberate ignition

• Second wildfire ongoing at Sandbank Road, Hilltown

• Around 50 firefighters tackling a fire front over 500 metres

• Public urged to avoid affected areas and support emergency operations

• Weather warning for wildfires remains in place across Northern Ireland

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