Forest fires in Saxony and Thuringia: Light all -clear after crisis!

Forest fires in Saxony and Thuringia: Light all -clear after crisis!

In the region around Thuringia and Saxony, devastating forest fires are currently raging, which have been keeping the emergency services and residents in suspense for several days. The authorities are currently reporting on a slight all -clear in Thuringia, especially on the Saalfeld Höhe, where the situation has stabilized. A spokesman for the Saalfeld-Rudolstadt district office expressed itself optimistically: "The situation is stable, there is a slight all-clear", as the Newspaper reported. Despite the positive reports, there are still difficulties in combating the flames.

Since Wednesday, the outbreak of fire, at least 250 hectares are burning near Gösselsdorf, which has been the largest forest fire in Thuringia for 33 years. The disaster was proclaimed and around 600 fire brigade, THW, Bundeswehr and the police are permanently deployed. The water supply turns out to be problematic in some regions, and the fire brigade has to improvise with unconventional means.

challenges in fire fighting

The wind and the persistent heat help to make the extinguishing work difficult. In addition, the supply of extinguishing water is not always secured, which makes the situation even more precarious. In the Gohrischheide, a critical fire site on the border of Saxony and Brandenburg, an attempt is made to prevent the spread of the fire. The Tagesschau reports hundreds of emergency services who tirelessly fight the flames.

The extent of the devastation is alarming. Satellite recordings indicate that around 2,100 hectares could now be burned. This corresponds approximately to a tenth of the area of the city of Chemnitz. The first deep wells are already exhausted, which also contains the water supply. Outdated infrastructure, remnants of ammunition in the ground and environmentally harmful effects are additional challenges that need to be mastered.

The role of climate change

climate change plays a leading role in the frequency and intensity of forest fires. In Germany, the forest fires have risen in recent years, and in 2023 over 1,200 hectares have already been devastated by fire. This is a trend that affects the entire region. Statistically speaking, the most common causes of forest fires in Germany are arson and human negligence. About half of the fires of unknown origin, as can be read on Statista

The high temperatures and drought favor these dangerous developments and cause not only damage to flora and fauna, but also significant economic losses and health risks for the population.

Despite the tense location, there are also bright spots: farmers support the emergency services with tractors and water trailers. The cooperation between various organizations and independent helpers gives hope that the situation can soon be brought under control.

It remains to be hoped that a announced rain will bring a little relief in the coming days and that the fire can finally be contained.