Mourne Mountains fire: ‘Major incident’ declared as over 100 firefighters battling two-mile blaze near Hilltown
The fire began raging in hills outside Hilltown (main image – stock)
Hills outside Hilltown (stock image)
Emergency services have declared a “major incident” as dozens of firefighters tackle a blaze in Co Down.
More than 30 crew joined the fight on Saturday evening with over 100 firefighters attempting to extinguish the blaze with a span of approximately two miles.
At least 14 fire appliances from the surrounding regions were in attendance at the escalating incident in the Sandbank Road area of Hilltown.
A large area of forestry is also alight as a result of the growing flames.
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Crews responded to the reports of the fire just after 5pm on Saturday.
A number of roads have been closed and NIFRS have requested for locals to avoid the area.
A spokesman from the NIFRS said: “The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service have declared a major incident at a significant wildfire on Sandbank Road, Hilltown, with a fire front of approximately two miles including a large area of Forestry close to property.
“14 fire appliances and over 100 firefighters are in attendance from Fire Stations across the service supported by a Command Support Units, other specialist vehicles and wildfire teams.
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“Locals residents are requested to avoid the area, a number of roads have been closed, to help support firefighting operations.
“We ask that all members of the public remain particularly vigilant to the risk of fire at this time. We can reassure members of the public that normal service delivery is being maintained.”
