A Status Yellow high temperature weather warning remains in place for the South West, including a wildfire alert, after a huge blaze took hold across Camden Fort in Crosshaven.
At around 5pm yesterday, a huge fire took hold and could be seen as far as Cobh, which soon spread quickly in strong winds and threatened to grow further towards homes in Crosshaven. The dense smoke was over the town and spread as far as the estuary to Carrigaline.
Emergency services soon sprung into action, with Fire crews from Crosshaven, Carrigaline, Kinsale and Cork City Fire Brigade arriving in support of their colleagues from County Fire Service, containing the blaze.
It was also reported by Cork Beo that a four wheel vehicle and water tanker were also deployed to aid the firefighting operations in the steep terrain. The Port of Cork firefight also was able to control the blaze and help the crews on lad.
The Coast Guard also helped out in this operation, after they were called to assist and support from the water, allowing firefighters to get a better view of the area, and co ordinate their firefighting operations efficiently.
Speaking about this, Cork County Council said: "Due to strong easterly winds, a significant volume of smoke was carried across the harbour towards Carrigaline, which at times made it difficult to accurately assess the location and extent of the fire from land" (quotes according to Cork Beo).
They added: "Cork County Fire Service would like to thank all responding agencies for their cooperation and assistance in bringing the incident to a safe conclusion".
Meanwhile, Cork City Fire Brigade said: "Firefighters worked tirelessly alongside each other for over four hours to bring the incident under control. Thanks to their coordinated efforts, the fire was successfully prevented from spreading to nearby homes, protecting local residents and property".
"A great example of teamwork, professionalism and dedication by all crews involved".
"We would also like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation while emergency services dealt with the incident".
Wildfire Alerts have since been issue as part of an overall temperature warning for the South West, as the ongoing heatwave shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.
The work of the emergency services was praised by Local Councillor Una McCarthy, for their ability to curtail the blaze in Crosshaven, but did say that issues with water pressure in the area have caused huge challenges to the fire services.
"Speaking with firefighters at the scene, they once again highlighted serious concerns about water pressure, which proved to be an issue during this incident. This is concerning, particularly as the same problem was identified following the Carrigaline fire last September", she said, per Cork Beo. "Thankfully, water tankers from the city were deployed early, which played a crucial role in helping to contain the fire".
She added: "Our firefighters, together with all the emergency services involved, continue to do an incredible job in extremely challenging circumstances. They deserve the infrastructure, resources, and support they need to respond safely and effectively. These longstanding issues regarding water pressure must now be addressed".
Wildfires have so far claimed the lives of many across Europe this summer, with the public reminded that we have the conditions for serious blazes are here, if extreme care is not taken.
