Approximately 75 firefighters have been engaged in extinguishing a significant wildfire in the Mourne Mountains, located in County Down, Northern Ireland.

The fire in the Bloody Bridge area was reported as managed by Tuesday evening, with investigations into the cause continuing.

However, another blaze was reported nearby in the Slieve Bearnagh area, which required three firefighting appliances as of late Tuesday afternoon, with operations anticipated to persist into the evening hours.

These ongoing wildfires are part of a broader series of incidents, with firefighters responding to nearly 150 separate fires in the region since the previous Thursday.

An amber wildfire warning remains active, coinciding with forecasted rising temperatures in Northern Ireland, raising concerns for further ignitions.

Authorities have described the situation as critical, necessitating heightened vigilance and rapid response measures.

Police involvement has been heightened, utilizing aerial support and specialized units to monitor the area for potential suspects and to detect fires at their inception, ensuring timely alerts for local residents who may be at risk.

Reports indicate that some recent wildfires are suspected to have been deliberately set, leading to discussions on preventive measures and potential legal repercussions for those responsible.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill addressed the media at Parliament Buildings in Belfast, expressing deep concern over the destruction caused by the fires.

She emphasized the need for governmental action to prevent future wildfires in the region and noted the need for a collaborative effort among ministers to develop comprehensive plans for wildfire prevention.

O’Neill, who had intended to hike in the Mournes over the weekend, lamented the impact of the fires on this valued environmental area.

In addition to the blazes in the Mourne Mountains, firefighters responded to wildfires in other locations, such as gorse fires in the White Bridge area of Ballygawley, County Tyrone.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) reported multiple emergency responses, including incidents in Newry and Belfast, while also addressing public safety concerns related to wildfire risks.

Superintendent Norman Haslett from the Police Service of Northern Ireland highlighted the dangers that wildfires pose to local communities and the environment.

He reiterated the commitment to investigate the origins of these fires and to hold accountable those who ignite them maliciously.

The urgency of this issue was further underscored by Sinn Féin MLA Aisling Reilly, who commented on another fire incident occurring on Black Mountain in west Belfast, calling attention to its environmental significance and urging the community to support emergency personnel responding to the situation.

Authorities have issued a yellow warning for wildfires and are advising residents to adhere to fire safety guidance, emphasizing the importance of alerting emergency services if any fires are spotted to mitigate further risks.