Risk of forest in Lower Saxony: Heat drives alarm levels up!

Risk of forest in Lower Saxony: Heat drives alarm levels up!

Goslar, Deutschland - In Lower Saxony, the risk of forest fire is skyrocketed, and not without reason. The German Weather Service (DWD) reports temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius in several regions on July 2, 2025. This heat, paired with long drought, has meant that the danger levels have risen drastically in many areas. The regions of Faßberg, Wittingen-Vorhop and Celle are particularly affected, where the forest fire threat index has reached the highest level. There are also the second highest risk level in 25 other areas.

The warnings apply not only to rural regions, but also to well -known places such as Freiburg/Elbe, Hanover (airport) and Bad Harzburg. In these times, the Lower Saxony state forest urgently calls on forest visitors to observe an absolute ban on smoking. Because human misconduct is the main cause of many forest fires. Open fire in forests, bogs and pagans remains prohibited until October 31.

acute danger and prevention measures

The risk of forest fire has already led to serious incidents. A fire was suspected in the Goldenstedter Moor in May, which was triggered by a thrown cigarette. On June 22, too, emergency services reported a forest fire near Goslar, which affected around three hectares of forest area. In retrospect for April there were several fires in the Harz, which also caused great Antes. In order to master the situation, the forest fire center in Lüneburg has been in operation almost around the clock since March.

weather change in sight

Before the situation can escalate, there is hopes for improvement. From Wednesday afternoon, a change in weather is expected that could reduce the risk of forest fire in many regions of Lower Saxony. Both fingers crossed that the forecasts come true and the situation relaxes.

The current situation is not just a challenge for Lower Saxony. Over the federal states, current data show that increased forest fire risks are also recorded in regions such as Hesse and Bremen. For example, the Hessian Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Agriculture and Consumer Protection activates alarm levels based on forecasts and weather conditions. Alarm level A in Hessen indicates a high risk of forest fire.

The latest developments show that it is high time to take the measures to make fire seriously. The protection of our forests is the responsibility of each individual - we tackle it!