A Condition Orange forest fire danger rating has been issued by the Department of Agriculture which came into effect yesterday (Tuesday, May 22nd) from 12pm.
Pending significant rainfall and further meteorological review, the Condition Orange warning is due to expire at 12pm on Wednesday, May 30th unless otherwise stated by the Department.
Arising from current and forecast weather associated with Atlantic high pressure systems, a high fire risk is forecast in all areas where hazardous fuels exist.
The risk is projected to increase significantly during the next 24 hours, and then be sustained past the weekend and into the coming week.
According to a statement released by the Department:
“An increased ignition risk is associated with increased human activity in high risk areas owing to fine weather, particularly areas associated with turf cutting activities and areas adjacent to urban centres.
“Recently increased live growth in upland vegetation, low to moderate wind speeds and localised high humidity may moderate fire behaviour where conditions permit.”
Advice to Forest Owners and Managers
Forest owners and managers are advised for likely outbreaks of fire.
Fire lines, fire plans, fire suppression equipment should be reviewed and made ready and other relevant contingencies such as insurance and helicopter contracts should be checked and confirmed.
Forest owners, farmers, rural dwellers and other countryside users are being asked to be extremely vigilant regarding fire activity.
To report any suspicious or illegal activity you can contact the Gardai. Report all fires immediately to the Fire and Emergency Services via 112/999.
The Department recommends that forest owners and managers should consider the fire mitigation measures that they can put in place to help prevent loss or damage to forest resources through fire. These measures can be found here.
