UPDATE: Significant reduction in wildfire on Slievenamon's southern side
Meteorological forecasts indicate the wind direction around the mountain is expected to remain north easterly in the short term
Tipperary Fire Service has advised the public that smoke from the Slievenamon wildfire may continue to affect areas on the eastern side of the mountain intermittently this evening as the fire fighting operation is now concentrating on the north eastern side of the peak.
In an update issued around 4.40pm, the Fire Service said activity on the south side of Slievenamon has reduced significantly, with only some localised hot spots remaining.
“Response agencies continue to make steady progress in tackling the wildfire on Slievenamon, with coordinated efforts by all agencies helping to contain and suppress fire activity across the mountain.
“This afternoon, conditions on the south side of Slievenamon show a significant reduction in fire activity.
“While some localised hot spots remain, the fire in this area has reduced considerably.
“Fire crews will continue to monitor and manage these locations to prevent any re-escalation.
“The primary focus of operations is now the north eastern side of the mountain, where Tipperary County Council Fire and Rescue Service crews are actively engaged in firefighting operations. Resources remain concentrated in this area as efforts continue to contain and suppress the remaining fire fronts.
“The current wind direction (north eastern) remains unchanged and meteorological forecasts indicate that it is expected to remain in this position in the short term.
“As a result, smoke may continue to affect areas on the eastern side of Slievenamon intermittently throughout the day.
Tipperary Fire Service repeated its advice to the public to continue exercising caution in the vicinity of the mountain and to follow any advice issued by emergency services.
“Those with respiratory conditions should be mindful of smoke levels and take appropriate precautions.