The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has provided an operational update regarding two major wildfires that have required significant resources over recent days. While one large-scale incident in the Mourne Mountains has been successfully resolved, crews remain on the scene of a second substantial blaze.

The wildfire located in the Ballagh Road area of the Mourne Mountains was declared extinguished at 10.08am today, Tuesday 28 April 2026. The emergency began at 6.44pm on Saturday 25 April and, at its peak, involved over 80 firefighters. The blaze impacted an area spanning 1,000 hectares, and investigators believe the cause of the fire was deliberate ignition.

However, emergency operations continue at Sandbank Road in Hilltown. Approximately 50 firefighters are currently working to contain a fire front extending over 500m. NIFRS has requested that the public avoid the Hilltown area while firefighting efforts persist throughout the day. An NIFRS spokesperson stated: "With the weather warning still in place, we are appealing to the public to adhere to our fire safety advice. Please stay vigilant to fire in the countryside. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately."

To help prevent further incidents in the countryside, the NIFRS has issued the following safety guidance:

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside, as they can easily spiral out of control.

• Ensure all smoking materials and cigarettes are extinguished properly; do not discard ends on the ground or from vehicle windows.

• Use barbecues only in safe, designated areas and never leave them unattended.

• Confirm that barbecues are completely cold and extinguished before disposal.

• Do not leave glass or bottles in grassland or woodland; dispose of them in recycling bins or take them home.

• Park vehicles considerately to ensure emergency services can maintain access.

• Keep matches, lighters, and open fires out of the reach of children.

• Do not attempt to tackle any fire that cannot be put out with a single bucket of water; evacuate the area immediately.

• Report any countryside fires to NIFRS by calling 999.

• Report any individuals seen starting fires to the PSNI.