Police are asking the public to avoid the Newcastle area, in particular Trassey Road, Bloody Bridge, Tollymore Forest Park and Donard carpark.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service firefighters continue to deal with a major fire in the Mourne Mountains.
This is expected to be ongoing for the rest of Saturday.
Police would ask that people to avoid the area to ensure NIFRS has full accessibility to these areas.
“We understand many people will have made plans to walk the Mournes today but we would ask that you reschedule as you will be turned away upon arrival,” said a spokesperson.
Further updates will be issued in due course.
.@NIFRSOFFICIAL tackle the Mournes fires overnight. This is the worst wildfire in a long time – a stark reminder of the destructive impact on environment, wildlife & community. #Mournes pic.twitter.com/59xKWt9Nwu
— Press Eye Ltd (@presseyephoto) April 23, 2021
Thank you to the firefighters who’ve been fighting the gorse fire at the Bloody Bridge area of the Mournes throughout today.
I would ask the public to please stay away from this area, and allow the crews to do their job safely to bring the fire under control.
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) April 23, 2021