Garry Wood wildfire prompts emergency response and road closure in Dervock

A significant wildfire broke out in Garry Wood near Dervock this afternoon, prompting a robust response from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

The blaze, which has engulfed forestry along Conogher Road, has led to the closure of the route and warnings for the public to steer clear of the area.

The NIFRS received the initial call at 2:14pm on Sunday, 6 April, reporting a fire in the wooded area near Conogher Road.

Six fire appliances from Ballymoney, Coleraine, Portrush, Carnlough, Castlederg, and Ballycastle, alongside a Command Support Unit from Strabane, were swiftly deployed to tackle the incident.

A total of 40 firefighters are currently on the scene, employing jets and specialist wildfire equipment in an effort to contain the spreading flames.

A spokesperson for the NIFRS confirmed that crews expect to remain at the location for several hours as they work to bring the fire under control.

“Firefighters are dealing with a wildfire involving forestry on Conogher Road,” the spokesperson said. “Firefighters are utilising jets and specialist wildfire equipment to contain the fire.”

The operation is ongoing.

The PSNI, assisting at the scene, has reported that the fire has rendered Conogher Road impassable between Benvardin Road and Knock Road.

A police spokesperson urged the public to avoid the area, stating: “The Fire Service is dealing with a large fire in Garry Wood. As a result, the Conogher Road is not passable. Please avoid the area, thanks.”

The cause of the wildfire remains unclear at this stage, and no injuries have been reported. However, the scale of the response underscores the seriousness of the incident, with emergency services coordinating efforts to protect the surrounding area and prevent further escalation.