Homes being evacuated and livestock being moved as forest fire rages in West Roscommon
A forest fire in the Gorthaganny area is spreading rapidly. Pic: Liam Reynolds
A small number of homes in the West Roscommon area are being evacuated this evening as a large forest fire rages.
The Roscommon Herald understands that homes in the path of the fire are being evacuated as a precautionary measure and dozens of livestock are being moved to safety.
All roads leading into the Gorthaganny area have now been closed by gardaí while fire service personnel from a number of different units in counties Roscommon and Mayo tackle the blaze, which is being fanned by strong winds.
The latest video from the scene (click on the link below) shows just how widespread the fire is.
The fire, which broke out earlier this afternoon, is sending plumes of smoke, up to 1,000 feet in height, into the West Roscommon air. It is reported that over 60 acres of forestry may have alreay been destroyed.
Click on the link below to see that latest from the scene of the fire.
