A chance in wind direction saw the wildfires at Slievenamon spread yesterday into neighbouring Coillte forestry plantations.

As a result, the incident response plan has been reviewed and additional resources have been deployed to monitor and manage the evolving situation.

Firefighting operations remain ongoing, with ground crews, support agencies and aerial resources working to contain the fire and prevent any further spread.

Additional Fire Service personnel have also been tasked with assessing properties in areas that could potentially be impacted by the change in the fire’s direction.

No Immediate Threat to Life near Slievenamon

A limited number of residential properties have been identified and Fire Service personnel are engaging directly with affected residents and property owners to ensure they receive appropriate information and support.

At present, the official advice is that there is no immediate threat to life.

In guidance released last night, the HSE have advised residents in the wider area, particularly those located downwind of the fire, to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke in the area.

Vulnerable groups, including children, older people, pregnant women, and those with respiratory or heart conditions, should take additional precautions and avoid exposure to smoke where possible.

The public is also requested to avoid the River Anner at Thorney Bridge, where emergency services are drawing water to support ongoing firefighting operations.

Farmers and animal owners in the vicinity are advised to bring livestock indoors where possible or move animals away from areas affected by smoke.

Members of the public are again urged to stay away from the affected area, avoid all non-essential travel, whether on foot or by vehicle, and refrain from operating drones, which can interfere with emergency response and aerial firefighting operations.