Department of Agriculture Issues Condition Orange High Fire Risk Warning

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has issued a Condition Orange fire danger notice, warning of a high fire risk across Ireland.

The warning came into effect at noon on Monday, 20 April, and remains in place until noon on Monday, 27 April 2026.

The warning applies to all areas where hazardous fuels are present, including dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse.

The department is urging the public to be prepared, remain vigilant, and to stamp out forest fires.

Condition Orange is the second-highest level on the department’s Fire Danger Rating System and represents an active upgrade from the default baseline warning that is in place throughout the peak fire season. April is one of the highest-risk months of the year, as winter vegetation dries out quickly in spring winds before new green growth takes hold.

The public is reminded that it is an offence under the Wildlife Act to burn or destroy vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August.

Anyone who witnesses an uncontrolled or unattended fire should contact the emergency services immediately by dialling 999 or 112.

Residents in rural areas, particularly near forests, hillsides, bogs, or areas with gorse or heather, are advised to remove dry flammable vegetation from around their homes and to avoid any activities that could cause a fire.

Anyone visiting forests, parks or other recreational areas should not bring barbecues or other ignition sources and should park considerately to ensure emergency vehicles have clear access.