Rain brings relaxation: the risk of forest fire in the Rhein-Sieg district decreases

Waldbrand risk in Rhein-Sieg fell after rain

The recent rainfall has reduced the risk of forest fire in the Rhein-Sieg district. According to the forest fire index of the German Weather Service, the lowest risk of 1 was registered on Sunday, which indicates a very low risk. However, this relaxation is temporary, since there is already a new assessment on Monday, which predicts an increasing danger to level 2 due to the spread of sunshine and rising temperatures.

The weather forecast for the coming days shows moderate amounts of rain of six to nine liters per square meter that could fall between Tuesday and Thursday. Nevertheless, the index at Cologne/Bonn Airport already shows an increase to level 3, which is a medium danger. So the situation could change quickly if it stays dry.

precautionary measures and legal regulations

In particular at the upcoming Easter, it is advised to be particularly careful. The state company Wald und Holz North Rhine-Westphalia is reminiscent of applicable regulations that prohibit open fire near forests. A distance of at least 100 meters from the forest must be observed, unless it is designated barbecue areas. If this rule is not complied with, there are high fines up to 5000 euros.

Approval for celebrations such as Easter fire is the responsibility of the local regulatory authorities, which can request a security concept in advance. If the forest fire threat index increases to levels 3 or higher, all approvals granted will be invalid.

The increased risk of fire in spring is a well -known phenomenon, which is caused by dry winds, longer dry periods and much dead material in the forest. Preventive measures are therefore crucial. One of the general safety precautions is to keep travel and escape routes free and not to park motor vehicles on unpaved areas. In addition, a nationwide ban on smoking from March 1 to October 31, in order to continue to minimize the risk of forest fires.