Irish firefighters tackle Slievenamon blaze for sixth day

Fire service personnel in County Tipperary are engaged in a difficult battle against a persistent blaze at Slievenamon, now entering its sixth day. The situation remains challenging, with acting Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer Carol Kennedy describing a "tough evening" due to numerous flare-ups.

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We saw areas that we had already extinguished or got under control start up again.

"We saw areas that we had already extinguished or got under control start up again," Kennedy explained. "This morning we are going to assess it again. The cloud has come down again which has helped us, the temperature drop overnight and the fog has helped calm some of those hotspots down." Aerial support and additional personnel are being deployed on Saturday.

The primary message to the public remains consistent: avoid the area if possible and check on vulnerable individuals. The Fire Service, aided by civil defense, has conducted house-to-house leaflet drops and provided information to address public concerns. Residents living downwind of the fire are strongly advised to keep windows and doors closed whenever smoke is present.

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This morning we are going to assess it again. The cloud has come down again which has helped us, the temperature drop overnight and the fog has helped calm some of those hotspots down.

Extra precautions are urged for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions to minimize smoke exposure. Farmers and animal owners are also encouraged to monitor their livestock and relocate animals away from affected areas if feasible. Kennedy stated, "We don't see a risk to property at the moment." The public is also asked to refrain from non-essential travel to the area to ensure clear access for emergency vehicles.

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We don't see a risk to property at the moment.