The Department of Agriculture has issued a Condition Red forest fire warning for this weekend, marking the highest level of fire danger alert and a rare occurrence in Ireland. The warning, which came into effect at 3:00 PM yesterday and remains active until 12:00 PM on Monday, 14th July, comes as hot and dry weather conditions are forecast to continue across the country.
The extreme fire risk warning covers all areas where dead grasses, heather, and gorse exist, with fires expected to spread rapidly and unpredictably under the current weather conditions. Fire behaviour will be increasingly influenced by high temperatures, low humidity levels below 50%, and variable light to moderate windspeeds during the warning period.
Michael Healy-Rae, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine:
“The current weather gives people a great opportunity to enjoy our forests, National Parks, beaches and beauty spots at their best. Everyone has a duty to protect these areas and our rural livelihoods from the risk of fire. We want people to enjoy themselves responsibly, but to leave the barbecues and campfires at home this weekend. Be mindful of how you park and report fires immediately to emergency services via 112.”
The warning comes at a time when Ireland’s countryside is already under significant fire pressure. More than 4,300 hectares of land, including more than 300 hectares of forest, has already been affected by fires so far this year. This represents the eighth fire danger notice issued by the department in 2025, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by dry conditions.
Under extreme fire risk conditions, any ignition source in dead vegetation can lead to rapid wildfire development. Upland fires in these weather conditions pose extreme difficulties for firefighting efforts, with blazes potentially moving faster uphill than people can run.
The timing of the warning is particularly concerning for wildlife, as fires during this season can devastate habitats and prove fatal for fledgling birds and young mammals. Smoke from uncontrolled fires also poses health risks to human populations downwind of incidents.
Visitors to forests, parks, beaches and recreational areas are specifically asked not to bring barbecues or other ignition sources. People are also urged to park considerately to ensure emergency services can access areas quickly if needed.
Safety Guidelines for the Public
If you encounter a fire, do not attempt to tackle it yourself. Move to a safe, fuel-free location such as a car park, gather all family members, and call emergency services immediately on 112. Provide clear location details including the nearest townland and the best access route from public roads.
The burning of vegetation on uncultivated land between 1st March and 31st August is prohibited by law. Anyone witnessing suspicious or illegal burning activity should report it to Gardaí immediately.
For farmers and landowners, the department recommends implementing fire prevention plans immediately and maintaining the highest levels of vigilance. Machinery use around hay meadows requires particular caution, and any use of fire on farmland should be avoided during this period.
The fire management guidelines and current warnings are available on the government website at gov.ie/fire-management.