Forest fire alarm in Thuringia: Health at risk, close the window!

Forest fire alarm in Thuringia: Health at risk, close the window!

Flames are blazing in Thuringia: A significant forest fire has developed on the Saalfelder Höhe, which is not only severely affecting the local vegetation, but also the air quality. According to Antenne.de, several districts in Thuringia and Bavaria have been warned of smoke development, as the smoke gases are moving towards the southeast and residents should pay attention.

The Saalfeld-Rudolstadt district has triggered a disaster alarm. The forest fire, which now affects an area of ​​around 250 hectares, could spread further. What is worrying is the current drought, which promotes the rapid spread of fires, especially in former military training areas. In addition to Thuringia, the districts of Sonneberg and Saale-Orla-Kreis are also affected, while in Bavaria the districts of Kronach, Kulmbach and Hof have issued corresponding warnings. However, no particular health risk is ruled out in Hof, while the citizens of Kronach are urged to exercise caution.

Preparation and support

The emergency services are prepared for a long operation. Around 180 firefighters are on site and are preparing to fight the flames. The situation is serious: The fire in Gohrischheide has expanded dramatically in a short time and is currently affecting around 600 hectares. Around 100 people had to be evacuated from the town of Heidehäuser, including around 45 residents, as the risk of the fire spreading to the buildings increased. Residents are called on to leave their homes immediately via the NINA warning app.

A further 100 emergency services from southern Thuringia are requested to extinguish the fire. Police helicopters and fire engines are ready to fight the embers that are located in the hard-to-reach forest areas. The fire department's job is not only to put out the fire, but also to take quick action to prevent it from spreading.

Health risks from smoke

Another concern is the health effects of smoke. The Federal Environment Agency warns that forest fires release various pollutants into the air - including fine dust and carbon monoxide. These substances can not only irritate the respiratory tract, but can also put a strain on the cardiovascular system. People with existing respiratory diseases or cardiovascular problems are particularly at risk. Particulate matter pollution can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems, such as high blood pressure or even hospitalization. It is therefore advisable to keep windows and doors closed and to switch off ventilation and air conditioning to minimize the risk of health risks.

The current situation in Thuringia shows us once again how vulnerable our environment is and how quickly a danger can develop even in supposedly calm times. While emergency services do everything they can to tame the flames, it remains to be hoped that residents remain safe and their health is not put at risk. Further information about the effects of forest fires on air quality can be found on the Federal Environment Agency website here.