High forest fire in the resin: Steam locomotives stop for the time being!

High forest fire in the resin: Steam locomotives stop for the time being!

From Saturday, June 21, 2025, the forest fire theater level 4 applies in the Harz, which means a high risk. Harzer Schmalspurbahnen GmbH (HSB) therefore pulls the ripcord and will change train traffic on the popular route between three Annen Hohne and the Brocken. Instead of steam locomotives as usual, diesel locomotives are used to minimize the risk of fires. For the time being, this change is planned by Tuesday, June 24th,

Thanks to the high risk of forest fire, which has been reinforced by repeated forest fires on the Brocken in the past few weeks, those responsible refer to the use of the steam locomotives. Due to speculation, concerns had arisen that steam locomotives could trigger forest fires, but so far no clear evidence has been provided. HSB spokesman Dirk Bahnsen was disappointed with the changeover because the steam locomotives represent the main attraction for many travelers. Despite preventive measures, such as the installation of filters into the locomotives, security remains the top priority.

changes in the timetable

In the context of the changes, instead of the usual eight driving couples with steam locomotives, only seven pairs of driving with diesel locomotives are offered. This also means that the travel times are changed due to the changeover. The exact timetable will be announced in good time, so you should inform yourself in good time in order not to experience any surprises.

Another aspect related to the risk of forest fire are discussions about the formation of sparks in steam locomotives. Some facilities have already been installed to prevent sparking flights, and it is believed that fires do not start from the spark of coal firing. There are even suggestions to make technical changes to the locomotives, such as the conversion to fat lubrication, in order to further reduce environmental pollution.

the forest fire threat index

Overall, the forest fire hazard index (WBI) describes the meteorological potential of the risk of forest fire in five stages. The steps range from "very low danger" (1) to "very high danger" (5). This index is regularly updated by the German Weather Service (DWD) and helps the state authorities to assess the risk of forest fire. Especially from March to October, the risk of forest fires is increased, and it is important to find out about current developments. Further details can be found on the website of the state forest authorities.

The return of the steam locomotives depends heavily on the weather. Unfortunately, no large rain forecasts for the Harz are announced in the coming days, which keeps the situation tense. So it remains to be seen when the beloved steam operation can be resumed.

The situation for the HSB is above all a challenge, since the steam locomotives are not only an important part of the transport system, but also of crucial importance for tourism in the region. The switch to diesel locomotives may be a good decision for security, but the nostalgic charm of the steam locomotives remains unforgettable.

For more information about the risk of forest fire and the associated measures, interested readers can be the articles from MDR Visit, as well as the overview of the German> Weather service consult.