Amber wildfire warning issued as dry weather continues

Northern Ireland is facing an increased risk of wildfires as dry and sunny weather stretches into next week.

The National Hazards Partnership has issued an amber wildfire warning this weekend, highlighting the likelihood of fires that could be difficult to control.

Ground conditions are already very dry, with no rain recorded so far in April for most areas.

This follows a record-dry March, which saw just 27.0mm of rainfall – 31% of the monthly average.

Easterly winds will continue to dry out vegetation and temperatures are expected to climb towards the low 20C next week.

The amber warning also covers parts of England, Wales, and southern Scotland, reflecting growing concern as the dry spell continues with no significant rainfall in sight.

In the Republic of Ireland, a Condition Orange fire warning – also the second-highest level – has been issued.

The Irish government's notice warns of "a high fire risk in all areas where hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels like heather and gorse exist".

It also highlights how fire behaviour can be intensified by low humidity, gusty winds, and recent fires linked to turf cutting and illegal dumping.

The weekend will remain dry and sunny, with high pressure continuing to dominate the forecast at least through the middle of next week.

Some wildfires reported in the Mourne Mountains in recent weeks are thought to have been started deliberately.

Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir described the blazes as having a devastating impact on the environment and wildlife.

"No one should start a fire in the countryside unless it's part of a specific planned and properly managed land management practice.

"People lighting these fires may be putting their own and others' lives at risk including the fire service personnel and other emergency services tasked to deal with them," he said.

Five wildfires have already been reported in the Mourne Mountains in recent weeks.

NI Water is warning of the long-lasting impact fires can have on both the environment and drinking water supplies.

"Wildfires don't just damage wildlife and habitats," said Becca Allen, Catchment Officer at NI Water.

"When a wildfire happens it also removes the primary layer of vegetation, leaving the burned bare soil to make its way into reservoirs which provide our drinking water.

"This requires a lot of resources to remove at the water treatment stage. We all have our part to play in protecting the environment and enjoy our time in the countryside responsibly".

The utility company is reminding the public that water catchment areas must be protected — particularly during prolonged dry spells.

In line with guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), authorities are issuing clear guidance:

• Never light fires or barbecues in open countryside
• Fully extinguish cigarettes and never discard them outdoors
• Report fires or suspicious activity immediately by dialling 999
• Take rubbish home to avoid accidental ignition
• Avoid using disposable barbecues, especially in high-risk areas

Jon Charters, Wildfire Lead at the NFCC, said the public plays a key role in prevention.

"With the current conditions, we are urging the public to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of fires starting.

"Many of these incidents are preventable, and we need everyone to play their part in keeping our countryside and open spaces safe."

With another dry weekend expected, police in Newry, Mourne and Down have urged the public to enjoy local beauty spots safely.

Local officers have been carrying out increased officer patrols using 4x4s, motorcycles, quads and air support to monitor remote areas.

Supt Norman Haslett warned that gorse fires can cause severe environmental damage and pose serious risks to life and property.

He said that "more often than not, they are caused by human activity - whether this is through carelessness and inattention, or deliberate and malicious fire setting".

"Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can be prosecuted," Supt Haslett added.

Police have asked the public to act responsibly and report any suspicious activity.