Slievenamon fire 'substantially reduced in scale and intensity', says Tipperary Fire Service
Emergency services personnel will continue to monitor conditions on the famous Tipperary mountain overnight
Tipperary Fire & Rescue Service reports that significant progress has been made during the second day of its battle to get the wildfire on Slievenamon under control.
In an update issued at 4.45pm, the Fire Service said the blaze has not yet been fully extinguished but its scale and intensity have been substantially reduced compared to yesterday (Monday).
“Aerial support provided by the Air Corps and Coillte has played a critical role in the response effort, enabling water to be delivered to areas that are otherwise inaccessible by ground crews.
“These operations have been instrumental in reducing the extent of the fire and containing its spread.
“Emergency personnel will continue to monitor conditions overnight.”
The Fire Service pointed out that cooler temperatures and the potential for overnight fog are expected to assist firefighting efforts and help limit fire activity during the hours of darkness.
“A full assessment of conditions will be undertaken early tomorrow (Tuesday) morning.
“Following consultation with partner agencies and stakeholders, and informed by aerial reconnaissance and operational intelligence gathered throughout the day, the response plan will be reviewed and adjusted as required.”
The Fire Service urged members of the public in the Slievenamon area, particularly those located downwind of the fire, to keep windows and doors closed where possible.
“Individuals with respiratory conditions should take particular care and follow relevant health advice. The public is also requested to avoid all non-essential travel to the area in order to facilitate access for emergency service vehicles and operational personnel.”
Tipperary Fire Service also repeated its appeal to the public not to operate drones in the vicinity of the fire.
“Unauthorised drone activity poses a significant safety risk and can prevent firefighting aircraft from carrying out critical aerial operations.
“Tipperary County Council and Tipperary Fire and Rescue Service continue to work closely with all relevant agencies in managing the incident. The situation will be reviewed again tomorrow morning, and further updates will be issued as verified information becomes available,” the statement concluded.
Tipperary County Council, meanwhile, paid tribute to the dedication and professionalism of all personnel involved in the response efforts.