Grave lights banned in Cottbus: How the drought affects us!

Grave lights banned in Cottbus: How the drought affects us!

The city of Cottbus has decided to ban the lighting of grave candles in cemeteries with immediate effect. This became necessary because the ongoing drought brings with it an increased risk of fire. The regulation applies until further notice and affects all cemeteries in Cottbus. The city administration asks cemetery visitors for their understanding and recommends alternative options for commemoration. The protection of people, nature and burial sites is our top priority rbb24 reported.

Acute fire danger in Cottbus

In addition to the fire risk, an increase in damage to grave fields is being noted in the southern cemetery. Research shows that ravens and crows are responsible for this damage. Despite various measures to reduce these effects, the birds' behavior cannot be completely prevented. However, the cemetery administration remains active and does everything it can to preserve the dignity of the gravesites and minimize future damage Lower Lusatia currently reported.

Water withdrawal ban in several districts

The ongoing drought doesn't just have an impact on the cemeteries in Cottbus. A temporary water withdrawal ban is in effect in the Brandenburg region, including Cottbus and seven other districts. Affected districts are Spree-Neiße, Elbe-Elster, Oberspreewald-Lausitz, Dahme-Spreewald, Märkisch-Oderland, Barnim and Potsdam-Mittelmark. Corresponding orders are currently being prepared in Potsdam and Ostprignitz-Ruppin. While the withdrawal of water using pumped water devices is generally prohibited, the use of watering cans is still permitted in moderation. These measures are to be understood as a reaction to the acute water shortage in Germany geo described in detail.

Drought situation in Germany

The situation regarding water extraction is presented in a broader context. Germany as a whole suffers from water shortages, especially in the height of summer. This drought has consequences for many regions where citizens are called upon to use water sparingly. Similar restrictions are already in force in some federal states, such as North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg, where the withdrawal of water from rivers and streams is prohibited in the summer months. This nationwide phenomenon shows the urgency and need to address the effects of climate change and take appropriate measures.

In Cottbus and beyond, it remains important to act carefully and responsibly in order to protect the valuable resource of water and avoid fires.