The risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony is increasing: the heat wave is causing concern!

The risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony is increasing: the heat wave is causing concern!

There is currently an increased risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony due to persistent drought and extreme temperatures. Thermal peaks of over 38 degrees Celsius were recorded on July 2, 2025, further exacerbating the situation. The forest fire danger index of the German Weather Service (DWD) shows the highest danger level in three regions - Faßberg, Wittingen-Vorhop and Celle - while 25 other areas fall into the second highest category. This reports NDR.

The warnings are aimed, among others, at the towns of Freiburg/Elbe, Rosengarten-Klecken and Lüchow, but also at many other cities such as Hanover, Bad Harzburg and Göttingen. Those responsible are expecting a change in the weather from Wednesday afternoon that could reduce the risk of forest fires in several regions. However, it is important not to treat the risk lightly.

Increased security precautions

The Lower Saxony State Forests urge forest visitors to adhere to a smoking ban and to pay attention to any evidence of human error, as this is the main cause of many forest fires. Open fires in forests, moors and heaths remain strictly prohibited until October 31st. A serious incident occurred in Goldenstedter Moor when a fire was started by a discarded cigarette in May.

The authorities are particularly concerned about the forest fires that have recently broken out in Lower Saxony. There was a fire near Goslar on June 22nd that caused around three hectares of forest damage, while several fires were recorded in the Harz Mountains in April. Climate change is contributing to a dramatic worsening of the situation by causing more frequent dry periods and heavy rain events. Current forecasts show that these trends may continue to intensify, which may further increase the risk of wildfires Forest knowledge determines.

Modern surveillance systems

In order to counteract the impending danger, Lower Saxony is relying on modernized surveillance systems. Since 2021, the forest fire monitoring center (AWFS) in Lüneburg has been upgraded. 20 new cameras enable more precise monitoring, and a new IT system ensures that reports can be evaluated more quickly. The area monitored is now almost one million hectares, with sensors able to detect fires up to 20 kilometers away. The alarm is triggered automatically if smoke develops. Detailed analysis and information collection can quickly save lives and minimize damage, such as Lower Saxony state forests report.

The forests of northeast Lower Saxony are therefore under constant observation. From forest fire warning level 3, a team of specially trained foresters is deployed. It is important not only to protect the forests and their ecosystem, but also to make the civilian population aware of the dangers. There is good reason why strict rules of conduct are being advocated during this critical time: no smoking in the forest, no throwing away cigarette butts, only using designated grill places - these simple rules can make a big difference in securing our forests.