Photo: LM Callaghan
A major wildfire at Barnesmore Gap was brought under control overnight, leaving a huge area of charred land in its wake today.
The fire ignited behind residential properties on the Donegal Town side of the Gap shortly after 6pm on Sunday evening.
Multiple units from fire brigades across South Donegal, later reinforced by the Ballybofey brigade, tackled the extensive flames. A helicopter provided aerial support by taking water from a nearby lough.
Throughout the evening, Gardaí, fire service personnel, and Donegal County Council’s Director of Emergency Services, Garry Martin, maintained a presence at the scene.
Donegal remains under an orange level Fire Danger Notice today due to the dry weather and risk of fires.
The notice is in effect for all areas where hazardous fuels such as gorse, heather, dried grasses, and other vegetation exist until midday today, Monday.
Donegal County Council continues to appeal to landowners and members of the public to exercise caution and to take all necessary measures to prevent the occurrence of wildfires.
The Council is also urging landowners and members of the public not to engage in activities that could cause wildfires.
Landowners and members of the public are urged to be vigilant and to report any uncontrolled or unattended fires immediately to the fire service by dialing 999 or 112.
