Public urged to stay away as Slievenamon wildfire spreads to forest

Due to a change in wind direction, the wildfire has spread to Coillte forest

Emergency services' efforts continue to battle what was described as a 'very large' blaze. Picture: Cllr Michael Brennan Facebook

Emergency services remain at the scene of a wildfire on Slievenamon, Co Tipperary, as the blaze has now spread into an adjacent forest.

Due to a change in wind direction, the wildfire has spread to the Coillte forest as fire and rescue services are working on containing the blaze to prevent it from spreading further on the mountain.

In a statement, Tipperary County Council said that while there are “no immediate risk to life of property”, people should stay away from the area to ensure unrestricted access is maintained for emergency vehicles.

“The co-operation of the public is greatly appreciated and remains essential to ensuring the safety of emergency personnel and the effectiveness of firefighting operations,” they said.

The statement also noted drones should not be operated in the vicinity of the blaze as such activity could force firefighting aircraft to suspend aerial water drops.

Further updates will be issued as the response operation continues.