Dryness - Forest fire risk in Brandenburg increases in the middle of the week
In the middle of the week, the forest fire danger is expected to increase again in Brandenburg. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), the forest fire danger will reach level three on the five-level forest fire danger index on Tuesday in nearly all districts. In the districts of Berge, Potsdam, and Wusterwitz, fire danger is even predicted to reach level four.
It is calculated that something could happen again today or tomorrow, Raimund Engel, the forest fire prevention officer, stated. However, we are well prepared. "All forest fire control centers in Brandenburg are staffed." After it rained a little over the weekend, we are hoping that the ground is still moist.
The DWD predicts a lower forest fire danger towards the end of the week. However, since it is often uncertain whether forecasted thunderstorms will bring the expected rainfall amounts, we are more cautious with long-term forecasts, Engel said.
Brandenburg: the federal state with the highest forest fire risk
"So far, we have had a good summer," the forest fire prevention officer remarked. Accordingly, there have been a total of 96 forest fires in Brandenburg since the beginning of the year. In the years 2023 and 2022, the number of forest fires in the same period was significantly higher with 176 and 313.
Brandenburg, according to the Forest Agency, is the federal state with the highest forest fire risk due to little rain, extensive pine forests, and light sandy soils. The entire year round, it is forbidden to light or smoke fires in the forest or within 50 meters of the forest edge, according to the Environment Ministry.
- Despite the recent rain, the dryness in the forests of Potsdam and other districts in Brandenburg remains a concern, as it increases the danger of forest fires.
- Angels from various fire departments across Brandenburg will be on high alert in Potsdam and other high-risk areas, ready to respond to any sign of a forest fire due to the increased danger.
- The possibility of a level four forest fire danger in districts like Berge, Potsdam, and Wusterwitz in Brandenburg signifies an unprecedented threat, with Brandenburg's forest fire history serving as a reminder of the potential danger and destruction.
