Sean Murphy :
Parking a car over dry gorse can easily ignite a massive mountain wildfire. A vehicle's exhaust system and catalytic converter can reach extreme temperatures exceeding 1,000°F (537°C), radiating enough heat to ignite dry mountain vegetation underneath it. [1, 2]
If you are trying to clear mountain gorse, using a car's heat is incredibly dangerous, illegal, and will result in an uncontrollable blaze. If you intend to burn gorse or clear it safely, you must follow strict legal guidelines and established agricultural practices. [1, 2, 3, 4]
🚨 The Dangers of Vehicle Heat on Gorse
Catalytic Converter Ignition: Long, dry grass or gorse touching the undercarriage of a parked or idling car will smolder and catch fire within minutes. [1, 2]
Uncontrollable Wildfires: Gorse contains highly flammable natural oils. A tiny spark or heat source can instantly cause a rapidly moving mountain fire that threatens lives, homes, and wildlife. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Vehicle Destruction: If the vegetation underneath the car catches fire, the vehicle will quickly become trapped and engulfed, presenting an explosion hazard. [1, 2]
2026-07-22 20:04:06