Waldbrand in Gohrischheide: heavy smoke is burdened by Bautzen and Görlitz!

Waldbrand in Gohrischheide: heavy smoke is burdened by Bautzen and Görlitz!

Bautzen, Deutschland - The location is tense in the districts of Görlitz and Bautzen: strong smell of smoking moves through the region, triggered by a worrying forest fire in the Gohrischheide, in the district of Meißen. Like the Saxon reported, warned the integrated control center of East Saxony in the early morning. The smoke is not only perceptible, but also reaches Dresden and its surroundings.

With strong winds from the direction of the fire area, the smoke and odor nuisance is additionally reinforced. The Dresden fire brigade has already informed that the smoke comes from surrounding forest fire areas. An important note for the population: Emergency number 112 should only be used for real emergencies.

background of the forest fire

The forest fire in Gohrischheide is one of the largest in Brandenburg's history. Around 850 hectares of forest area - including about 300 hectares on the Brandenburg side - were destroyed. The damage amounts to the millions, and reforestation takes a lot of time and resources. Michael Marth, a affected forest owner, describes the devastating episodes: "In the past, a pine forest dominated, now mixed forests are created with oaks and other deciduous trees," reports the rbb24 .

Support from the country's funding ensures that 40 out of 70 hectares are already reforested or are being planned. At the same time, experts warn: later residues such as dead wood increase the risk of fire, and regular care of the young trees is essential to avoid future fires.

forest fires in general

The frequency and intensity of forest fires rise globally - a trend that does not spare Germany. Statista shows that in 2023 over 1,200 hectares were lost by fires. Although the number has dropped compared to the previous year, the reasons are alarming: climate change, drought, and, last but not least, human failure play a crucial role.

The vast majority of forest fires in Germany are caused by arson or negligence, and only a small proportion has natural causes. This makes preventive sensitization and preventive measures in the population even more important to reduce the danger.

in this context is also the moderation of fire loads that can damage both the environment and health, since the smoke releases fine dust.

The situation in Görlitz and Bautzen is more than just a local affair. It reflects a bigger problem that affects us all. It is therefore hoped that quick measures will be taken so that such devastating forest fires can be prevented in the future.