The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service deployed about 95 firefighters to combat wildfires at Ballagh Road in Newcastle and Sandbank Road in Hilltown in the Mourne Mountains. Operations began over the weekend and will continue through the week.

Fires also broke out at Slievenaman Road and Bloody Bridge area in Newcastle. More than 50 firefighters worked overnight at Slievenaman Road, where the blaze is now contained. Road diversions remain on Bryansford Road, Moyad Road, and Trassey Road.

Mourne Mountain Rescue team co-ordinator Martin McMullan stated the fires did not appear to start from recreational activities. He noted the starting points were nearly inaccessible to the public. McMullan added that one fire spread toward properties along the Coast Road and Donard Forest, prompting evacuation of a caravan park.

Stormont Agriculture and Environment Minister Andrew Muir called rural arson a crime. He urged anyone with information on deliberate fires to contact police.

The Fire and Rescue Service responded to smaller wildfires in Belfast, Armagh, Lurgan, and Rathfriland over the weekend. A wildfire weather warning stays in effect. Officials advise calling 999 upon spotting a fire and avoiding affected areas.