Police issue urgent warning to stay away from Mourne Mountains as fires continue to burn and emergency response intensifies

Emergency services remain under sustained pressure across the Mourne Mountains, with fresh fires breaking out and active operations now centred on Bloody Bridge and Head Road as police warn that anyone entering the area risks both their safety and the wider emergency response.

Fire crews are continuing to tackle multiple incidents on Wednesday 29 April, with the situation evolving despite earlier progress at major wildfire sites earlier in the week.

New fire locations draw resources as operations expand

The focus of firefighting activity has shifted to the Bloody Bridge and Head Road areas, where crews are currently deployed dealing with active fires.

These latest incidents come after a prolonged period of wildfire activity across the Mournes, including a major blaze at Ballagh Road which burned approximately 1,000 hectares before being brought under control on Tuesday morning, and an ongoing operation at Sandbank Road in Hilltown involving around 50 firefighters tackling a fire front stretching over 500 metres.

The emergence of further fires highlights the continuing volatility of conditions across the region.

Police warn presence alone can endanger lives and disrupt response

With emergency operations continuing across multiple locations, police have issued a direct appeal for the public to avoid not just specific hotspots but the Mourne Mountains area as a whole.

Sergeant Kenny Gracey stressed that even well-intentioned visitors could create serious risks.

“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. Just being in the area can put individuals at risk, impede emergency services in their work and can also tie up crucial resources that may be needed elsewhere.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding at this time.”

The warning reflects growing concern that public access could interfere with firefighting operations, block emergency routes, and divert critical resources.

Wildfire crisis continues despite major progress earlier in week

Although one of the most significant fires at Ballagh Road has now been extinguished following a multi-day response involving more than 80 firefighters, the wider wildfire situation remains unresolved.

That blaze, which began at 6.44pm on Saturday 25 April and was dealt with by 10.08am on Tuesday 28 April, expanded across approximately 1,000 hectares and is believed to have been started deliberately.

Meanwhile, firefighters continue to work tirelessly at Sandbank Road in Hilltown, where around 50 personnel remain engaged in containing an extensive fire line.

The persistence of fires across different locations has underscored the scale of the challenge facing emergency services.

Ongoing risk as weather warning remains in place

A weather warning for wildfires remains active, with dry conditions continuing to heighten the risk of further outbreaks across Northern Ireland.

Firefighters and police are urging vigilance from the public, warning that conditions remain highly susceptible to ignition and rapid spread.

The continued emergence of new fire sites suggests that the risk has not diminished, even as some incidents are brought under control.

Public urged to report fires immediately and avoid countryside risks

Emergency services have reiterated that any fire in the countryside must be reported without delay by calling 999.

The public is also being reminded to follow strict fire safety guidance, including avoiding open fires, properly extinguishing cigarettes, and ensuring barbeques are used safely and never left unattended.

People are advised not to attempt to tackle fires beyond their control and to leave affected areas immediately if they encounter danger.

Anyone with information about deliberate fire-setting is urged to contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Pressure on emergency services remains intense

With firefighters continuing to respond across multiple locations and new incidents emerging, the situation in the Mourne Mountains remains both dynamic and resource-intensive.

Authorities continue to emphasise that public cooperation — particularly staying away from affected areas and reporting fires quickly — is essential to allow crews to bring the situation under control and prevent further damage to the landscape.

---

At a glance

• Emergency services tackling ongoing fires in the Mourne Mountains

• Active incidents reported at Bloody Bridge and Head Road

• Police urging public to stay away from entire Mournes area

• Warning that presence can risk lives and disrupt emergency response

• Major Ballagh Road wildfire previously burned 1,000 hectares

• Around 50 firefighters still tackling Sandbank Road fire in Hilltown

• Weather warning for wildfires remains in place

• Public urged to call 999 immediately if fires are spotted

• Appeal for information on deliberate fire-setting