Heat wave over Germany: Experts warn of the risk of forest fires and ozone concentrations

Created: 06/15/2022, 19:11

By: Julia Volkenand

Because of the persistent heat and lack of precipitation, the Hessian Ministry of the Environment is now warning of a high risk of forest fires.

Wiesbaden – The summer heat has Germany firmly in its grip.

According to experts, it will be up to 40 degrees hot in the west and south of the Federal Republic at the weekend.

The city of Stuttgart has therefore even closed public barbecue areas on the grounds that the risk of forest fires is simply too high.

Heat wave: The risk of forest fires worries experts

Because of the lack of precipitation and high temperatures, the Hessian Ministry of the Environment has now also warned of an increased risk of forest fires.

There is a medium, locally even very high risk of forest fires in Hesse.

So far there is no sign of rain, which could minimize the risk.

In particular, there is an increased risk in wooded areas with many dead trees and on bare areas with remains of crowns and brushwood.

This is due to the stronger solar radiation and the brushwood that remained there. 

In addition to increased caution when visiting the forest, it should be noted that no fire may be lit outside of designated barbecue areas, according to the Ministry of the Environment.

In BBQ areas, care should be taken to avoid sparks and to properly extinguish the fire before exiting.

Smoking is also prohibited in the forest.

Cigarettes thrown out of the car are also a forest fire risk in the weather.

The ministry also asked that access roads to forests be kept free.

In Germany it will be really hot in the coming days.

© Silas Stein/dpa

Heat wave in Germany: ozone concentration increased

The State Agency for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology also warned of an increased ozone concentration in Hesse.

Children, young people and people who are sensitive to the increase in levels are advised to avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors.

The experts also advised against endurance sports.