- Flame Suppression at Previous Training Area
A raging inferno at an old training ground close to Jüterbog, Brandenburg, has been put out. As a precaution, a fire patrol continues to monitor the site, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Brandenburg an der Havel regional control center. Thankfully, no nearby settlements were harmed on the B102 federal highway between Altes Lager and Klausdorf.
The blaze ignited last Friday without a clear cause, and it scorched approximately 8 to 9 hectares of land. Due to old ammunition buried beneath the soil, firefighting efforts were hampered. Firefighters meticulously extinguished the flames from safe vantage points. Later that evening, a military firefighting helicopter was deployed, as per the regional control center's report.
The ground was adequately dampened. Given the belief that the fire's spread at night would be unlikely, the initial firefighting efforts were temporarily halted. However, come morning, the fire was discovered to be under control. By midday, the all-clear was given.
The fire department battled an intense wildfire on the former training ground in June 2023, which lasted for several days. Due to old ammunition beneath the soil, firefighters often had to stay at a distance from the fire. Aircraft and helicopters were utilized to fight the fire from above. As per incident command, the total affected area exceeded 700 hectares.
After experiencing several days without substantial rainfall, wildfire risks are elevated in certain regions of Brandenburg. According to the state environmental ministry, the wildfire danger level is currently rated 4 in four southern districts, signifying a high risk. The level of risk peaks at 5 in some districts. In four more of the 14 districts, the risk is considered medium (level 3).
The training ground where the fire occurred was previously used for military exercises. To prevent any future incidents, extensive safety measures will be implemented on the training ground.
