Agriculture/Livestock News

Forest fire warning this weekend

Forest fires

Current weather conditions have prompted a Condition Orange forest fire warning issued by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). This will remain in place until Monday, 30 May, 2022, at midday.

DAFM states that, “A high-pressure weather system which is currently located to the south of Ireland will move northwards and influence northerly airflows with low to moderate humidity and moderate wind speeds as the weekend progresses.”

Strong winds (above 30km/h) may occur in some northern and eastern parts.

“A high fire risk is deemed to exist in all areas where hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist. Fire behaviour will be moderated by increased live fuel availability and high live fuel moisture levels in upland areas,” explained DAFM.

Forest owners, farmers, and anyone using or living in the countryside should be extremely vigilant in preparation for “likely outbreaks of fire” and report flare-ups to emergency services. They should also check fire lines, plans and suppression equipment and have them ready for effective use. Members of the public should not light fires in and around forests or open land.

DAFM notes that it is illegal to burn vegetation growing on any land not cultivated between 1 March and 31 August. Those who have permits for legal burning must contact other forest owners in the vicinity as well as local Gardaí and the fire service before commencing any burning.

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