Waldbrand near Sonnewalde: Emergency forces fight against glowing embers!

Waldbrand near Sonnewalde: Emergency forces fight against glowing embers!

What a challenge for the fire brigades in the Elbe-Elster district! At Sonnewalde, a forest fire has developed into a huge operating situation that broke out on Tuesday afternoon and now, on July 3, 2025, seems to be under control. According to RBB24 burning about 27 hectares of forest, with most of the most flames. But the trees, especially the pines and many dead wood, do not make it easy to finally calm the situation. Despite the controls, the risk of forest fire in Brandenburg remains very high.

On Tuesday, up to 300 emergency services with 36 vehicles were on site to keep the fire in chess. On Wednesday morning, the forces were reduced to around 150. However, in order to find and eliminate all embers, around 15 to 20 firefighters remain on site, supported by drones that are equipped with infrared cameras. This technique, as it is reported by Radio Cottbus , the embers on the forest floor helps Identify that is still a central problem.

worrying situation

The temperatures above 30 degrees only contribute to the tense location. Interior Minister René Wilke has commented on the forest fire location and emphasized that the situation remains tense. On Tuesday, 52 residents between Breitenau and Kleinbahren had to be evacuated as a precaution, which was fortunately lifted in the evening, so that the residents could return to their houses. But the evacuation is not the only challenge: the affected area is suspected of the ordnance, which further complicates the extinguishing work.

The number of forest fires in Brandenburg has increased significantly this year. As early as July there were as many fires as in the entire year 2024. According to SDW Brandenburg , the endangered pine forests on sand floors are particularly susceptible and make Brandenburg most strongly Handling of forest fire. The number of fires in recent years testifies to the terrifying reality that carelessness - be it from cigarettes, grilling or campfire - can lead to enormous damage.

outlook and prevention measures

The fire brigade will remain in constant commitment for the coming days. The floor temperatures are to be reduced to prevent the fire from flagging up. At the same time, the fire brigade appeals to the population to keep space to keep small bodies and to follow the instructions of the police and emergency services. A citizen phone is available for questions.

Developments in the next few days will be crucial to prevent the fire from being sparked again. Brandenburg's forests are not easy, and everyone can help minimize the risk. Let us hope that the emergency services have a good hand with the location!