Danger of forest fires in Lower Saxony: Heat raises alarm levels!

Danger of forest fires in Lower Saxony: Heat raises alarm levels!

The risk of forest fires has skyrocketed in Lower Saxony, and not without reason. The German Weather Service (DWD) reported temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius in several regions on July 2, 2025. This heat, coupled with prolonged drought, has caused danger levels to rise dramatically in many areas. The regions Faßberg, Wittingen-Vorhop and Celle are particularly affected, where the forest fire danger index has reached the highest level. There are also 25 other areas at the second highest level of danger.

The warnings apply not only to rural regions, but also to well-known places such as Freiburg/Elbe, Hanover (airport) and Bad Harzburg. During these times, the Lower Saxony State Forestry Department urges forest visitors to observe an absolute ban on smoking. Human error is the main cause of many forest fires. Open fires in forests, moors and heaths remain prohibited until October 31st.

Acute danger and preventive measures

The threat of forest fires has already led to serious incidents. In May, a fire in Goldenstedter Moor was suspected to have been caused by a discarded cigarette. On June 22nd, emergency services also reported a forest fire near Goslar, which affected around three hectares of forest. Looking back on April, there were several fires in the Harz Mountains that also caused a lot of trouble. In order to get the situation under control, the forest fire center in Lüneburg has been in operation almost around the clock since March.

Against this background, the forestry authorities are demanding that the population strictly adhere to the rules of conduct: no smoking in the forest, do not throw cigarette butts out of the car and only roast in designated barbecue areas. In addition, the minimum distance of 50 meters from the forest should be maintained and forest paths should be kept clear to allow emergency services access. Reports of fires that occur should be made immediately.

A change in the weather is in sight

Before the situation can escalate, there is hope for improvement. A change in the weather is expected from Wednesday afternoon, which could reduce the risk of forest fires in many regions of Lower Saxony. Both fingers crossed that the forecasts come true and the situation eases.

The current situation is not just a challenge for Lower Saxony. Across the federal states, current data shows 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. Alert level A in Hesse indicates a high risk of forest fires.

Recent developments show that it is high time to take fire prevention measures seriously. Protecting our forests is everyone’s responsibility – let’s do it!