TWO men have died while walking in the Mourne Mountains.
Police said one man died after he fell on Wee Binnian shortly before midday today.
In a separate incident, the second man fell on Slieve Commedagh shortly before 1pm.
Both men, who are believed to be in their sixties, died at the scene.
A third man was rescued from the mountains with a suspected broken ankle following a fall close to the Saddle at around 2.30pm.
A tough and challenging day in the Mournes as Police 46, @PSNINMDown and other emergency services responded to 3 separate incidents. In strong winds we managed to airlift one male out but sadly the two others had died. Our thoughts are with their loved ones. Sgt A pic.twitter.com/iGnmwvKgqN
— PSNI Air Support (@PSNIAirSupport) January 13, 2019
SDLP South Down MLA Sinéad Bradley said the men's deaths were tragic.
"My thoughts are with those families who are receiving such devastating news," she said.
"May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
"Thoughts are also with the emergency services personnel who attended in the hope of a rescue attempt."
Mourne Mountain Rescue Team said 21 of its volunteers responded to emergency calls yesterday.
A spokesman said the team only stood down at 9.15pm.
"To have two fatal incidents in the course of a day is an anomalous situation and our thoughts and sympathies are with the families of the deceased," he said.
Police had earlier warned of strong winds on the mountains.
Inspector Frances McCullough said: "While weather conditions may seem okay when you start out on your journey, they can change very quickly as you venture upwards on the mountains.
"I would also appeal to anyone considering a walk on the mountains to ensure they tell their loved ones where they are going, what route they intend to take and how long they expect to be away, and to always carry identification with them and a phone that is fully charged."
