Drought threatens Halle: danger of forest fires at its highest!

Drought threatens Halle: danger of forest fires at its highest!

The drought has already led to an increase in the risk of forest fires in Saxony-Anhalt. Alarming forest fire warning levels currently apply in several regions of the state. In Anhalt-Bitterfeld, Mansfeld-Südharz and the Harz in particular, the highest danger applies with warning level 4 out of 5. Warning level 3 has been declared in Halle (Saale) and the neighboring Saale district. This situation means that the fire brigade has to be called out again and again to fight fires, which are often caused by human negligence. Last Saturday there were several wasteland fires in Halle (Saale), particularly in the Lettin and Heide-Nord districts as well as in the vineyard meadows between Heide-Süd and Neustadt. Hay bales were burning in various places, which is a clear indication of the preventive measures that need to be taken to prevent anything worse from happening.

The risk of forest fires in Saxony-Anhalt is influenced by various factors. The designation of forest fire danger classes, which is based on data collected over many years, helps to better assess the risks. The dangers are divided into classes A, B and C, with class A describing a very high risk of forest fires and the associated dangers from large fires. These measures are crucial because they take into account not only the fire area and frequency, but also the specific readiness of the forest structures to ignite and burn, as well as the regional climatic conditions. Loud Forest State Center The highest risk of forest fires is found in the north and east of Saxony-Anhalt, where extremely low rainfall meets ignitable pine forests.

Exacerbation of the situation

The situation not only poses major challenges for the fire departments, but also the entire population has to adapt to the increasing risk of forest fires. If you look at developments over the last few years, the frequency of forest fires in Germany has decreased significantly between 1991 and 2017. But extreme weather conditions in 2018 and 2019 led to an increase in these fires, particularly in the northeastern states. That is why the issue of forest fire prevention remains a central concern. Loud Federal Environment Agency In particular, negligent actions and arson play a significant role in the start of forest fires.

The risk of forest fires in Germany is presented using an index on a 5-point scale. In 2018, an average of 124 days with danger levels 4 and 5 were recorded in endangered areas. The significant challenges in fighting forest fires include not only the weather-related danger, but also the improvement of systems for early warning and education of the population. Many older fire lookout towers have been successfully replaced with modern digital sensors that relay information directly to the responsible forest fire control centers.

In view of the current fire risk in Halle (Saale), we strongly urge you to adhere to the safety measures and exercise increased caution. Walks in the forest are attractive in the current situation, but the risks are great. Not only the rescue workers, but also the population should show a good hand in order to protect nature and themselves. Let’s protect our forests and take care of each other.