Flaming inferno: oatmeal factory in Karstädt burns down!

Flaming inferno: oatmeal factory in Karstädt burns down!

In the early morning hours of June 23, 2025, a threatening fire broke out in a oatmeal factory in Karstädt, Prignitz district. The fire brigade was alerted at 4:30 a.m. when the roof structure was on fire. As a result, the roof and parts of the production facilities were in full fire. Letters and dense clouds of smoke were visible for miles, which led to an immediate warning to the residents who were asked to keep windows and doors closed and switch off ventilation systems. This warning was lifted later when the situation could be brought under control. As reported [berliner-kurier.de] (https://www.berliner-kurier.de/berlin/brandenburg/flammenden-inferno-haferflocken-fabrik-bratt-ab-zwehte-li.235871), around 200 firefighters and rescue workers were in large-scale.

Although two injuries - a fireman and an employee of the company - have to be complained about, the fire fighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading to other buildings. Avena Cerealien GmbH, which has been producing oatmeal in Karstädt since 1870, apparently was lucky in this critical situation. The exact causes of the devastating fire are currently still unclear. Brand experts check whether there is a technical defect or possibly arson, which is of great importance in the current situation.

challenges in the area

The location in Brandenburg is alarming: in the past few days there have been numerous forest fires caused by the continuing dryness and heat. According to n-tv.de the danger level in all counties rose to the highest level. Over 20 forest fires had been documented at the weekend alone, including a fire in Lindow, which had to be brought under control over 1.7 hectares. The police also assume arson, which increases concern about security issues in the region.

Overall, there is a worrying picture regarding fire protection and prevention. An analysis of the Institute for Damage Control and Damage Research by the public insurers (https://de.statista.com/statistik/datistik/studie/759420/umfreich/brandursachen-in-deutschland/) offers deeper insights into the most common causes of fire in Germany. Various causes were examined for the years 2015 to 2024, which are also of great importance for future prevention measures.