Smoky danger: Cottbus warns of health risks caused by the smell of forest fires!

Smoky danger: Cottbus warns of health risks caused by the smell of forest fires!

A warning from the Cottbus control center is currently drawing attention in Brandenburg. Today, July 5, 2025, there is a warning of significant odor nuisance in the districts of Cottbus, Dahme-Spreewald, Elbe-Elster, Oberspreewald-Lausitz, Spree-Neiße and Teltow-Fläming. The reason for this is burning smells that come from a forest fire in Gohrischheide in the Meißen district (Saxony). The warning was issued at 2:51 p.m. and is aimed at the public, urging them to be alert for possible further fires and to only call 112 in real emergencies. Health effects cannot be ruled out, which is why caution is advised.

In fact, the odor caused by smoke can not only be unpleasant, but can also cause serious health problems. This often results in symptoms such as headaches, nausea and dizziness. Like that Federal Environment Agency warns, forest fires release a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter and toxic chemicals, which not only irritate the respiratory system but can also have potentially harmful long-term effects. Fine dust (PM2.5) is particularly dangerous because it penetrates deep into the lungs and can damage the cardiovascular system.

Dangers of air pollution

The dangers of air pollution caused by wildfires should not be underestimated. According to that Mirror Studies have recently concluded that wildfires are associated with an increased risk of respiratory illnesses and negative health effects in newborns. Direct exposure to smoke can also lead to reduced lung function and acute irritation. People with existing respiratory diseases or cardiovascular problems are particularly at risk and should pay particular attention to elevated pollutant concentrations.

The effects of forest fires are not only felt regionally. The atmosphere also suffers from these natural events. Pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), produced by incomplete combustion, can be carcinogenic and increase the risk of fertility problems. These substances accumulate in the tissue and their long-term health consequences are currently difficult to assess. Another risk is carbon monoxide, which binds to hemoglobin and can endanger the oxygen supply in the body.

Despite the acute situation, the relevant authorities consider the risk to be low. Nevertheless, citizens should be asked to close windows and doors and turn off ventilation and air conditioning to protect themselves from harmful pollutants. The all-clear will be given as soon as the situation has defused. The situation remains tense for the affected districts and the population is well advised to follow developments closely.