Ongoing Slievenamon Wildfire brings smoke across Waterford

Smoke from the ongoing Slievenamon wildfire in Co Tipperary has been reported across parts of Waterford following a change in wind direction.

Tipperary Fire and Rescue Service said good progress has been made in tackling the blaze, which was first reported on July 20th, following a coordinated multi-agency response.

Fire activity on the southern face of Slievenamon has substantially reduced, although crews remain on site and operations continue to prevent any re-escalation.

However, an overnight wind shift has led to increased fire activity on the north-eastern section of the mountain, which is now the focus of firefighting efforts.

Residents on the eastern side of Slievenamon have been advised that smoke may be more noticeable throughout the day as crews continue to battle the fire.

Waterford Fire Service have received reports of the smell of smoke experienced in Portlaw, Kilmeaden and the Beau Street Area of Waterford City.

“I could smell it from Beau Street,” one person said.

Another person said the fire “was all talk in the Shaw’s Café” when they went in for coffee, while traffic diversions were also reported in the area.

The Air Quality Index recorded unhealthy readings in the Merchant’s Quay and Paddy Browne’s Road areas as smoke from the wildfire drifted across parts of Waterford.

Reports have also suggested the smell of smoke reached parts of Dunmore East and as far as Tramore.

Waterford City & County Council recently released a statement on smoke reaching the city and advised people with underlying respiratory conditions to take extra precautions while the smoke remains in the area.