Forest fire near Sonnewalde: emergency services fight against glowing embers!

Forest fire near Sonnewalde: emergency services fight against glowing embers!

What a challenge for the fire departments in the Elbe-Elster district! A forest fire near Sonnewalde has developed into a massive emergency that broke out on Tuesday afternoon and now, on July 3, 2025, appears to be under control. Loud rbb24 A total of around 27 hectares of forest burned, with most of it already in flames. But the trees, especially the pines and the large amount of dead wood, do not make it easy to finally calm the situation. Despite the controls, the risk of forest fires in Brandenburg remains very high.

On Tuesday, up to 300 emergency services with 36 vehicles were on site to keep the fire at bay. On Wednesday morning, the number of firefighters was reduced to around 150. However, in order to find and extinguish all embers, around 15 to 20 firefighters remain on site, supported by drones equipped with infrared cameras. This technology, like that of Radio Cottbus reported helps identify embers on the forest floor, which remains a key problem.

Worrying situation

The temperatures above 30 degrees only add to the tense situation. Interior Minister René Wilke has expressed concern about the forest fire situation and emphasized that the situation remains tense. On Tuesday, 52 residents between Breitenau and Kleinbahren had to be evacuated as a precaution, but fortunately this was lifted again in the evening so that the residents could return to their homes. But evacuation is not the only challenge: the affected area is considered to contain explosive weapons, which further complicates the extinguishing work.

The number of forest fires in Brandenburg has increased significantly this year. By July there had been as many fires as in the entire year of 2024. According to SDW Brandenburg The endangered pine forests on sandy soils are particularly vulnerable and make Brandenburg the federal state most at risk of forest fires. The number of fires in recent years bears witness to the frightening reality that carelessness – be it cigarettes, barbecues or campfires – can lead to enormous damage.

Outlook and preventive measures

The fire brigade will remain in constant operation for the coming days. Ground temperatures should be reduced to prevent the fire from flaring up. At the same time, the fire brigade appeals to the population to keep space around small stretchers and to follow the instructions of the police and emergency services. A citizen hotline is available for questions.

Developments over the next few days will be crucial in preventing the fire from reigniting. Brandenburg's forests don't have it easy, and everyone can help minimize the risk. Let's hope that the emergency services have a good handle on the situation!