Heat wave in the Celle district: danger of forest fires at warning level 5!

Heat wave in the Celle district: danger of forest fires at warning level 5!

In the Celle district, citizens must under no circumstances ignore warnings about the risk of forest fires. The second of August and the coming days bring bright sunshine and high temperatures of up to 35 degrees. This leads to a significant heat wave, which, together with a lack of precipitation, creates a threatening situation for the forests. The German Weather Service (DWD) and the local fire departments are sounding the alarm and recommending extreme caution, as CZ.de reports.

From next Tuesday, the highest warning level 5 will apply in Celle, which classifies the danger situation as very high. This warning level is also expected for Faßberg from Wednesday, while the second highest warning level 4 prevails in Bergen. The forest fire levels, as defined by the DWD in a uniform system, are crucial for assessing the risk of forest fires and help take preventative measures. A look at the forest fire danger index (WBI) shows that level 5 represents very high danger and can even allow entire forest areas to be closed.

Forest fire stages and their meaning

The classified forest fire levels range from 1 – very low danger to 5 – very high danger. In the higher levels, especially warning levels 4 and 5, open fires and smoking in forests are strictly prohibited. At the highest warning level, there are conditions under which entire forests can be closed to protect people and nature. Throwing cigarettes, improper charcoal disposal, and parking cars on dry grass are the most common causes of fires, as well [Sciodoo](https://sciodoo.de/was-bedeuten-waldbrandstufe-ursachen-besinn-und-auseffekten/#:~:text=Waldbrandstufe%20dienen%20zur%20Einsch%C3%A4tzu ng%20the%20forest fire danger%20as well as%20the causes of fire%20are%20increased%C3%B6hte%20temperatures%20and%20r%C3%BCckl%C3%A4ufige%20precipitation%C3%A4ge.) explained.

The forest fire danger index provides daily information about the risk and is used by the state authorities to pass on warnings. Given the recent weather conditions and what is expected to be a very hot week in August in 2025, people should be particularly vigilant. If there are strong sparks, we recommend protecting yourself with a hat or a damp cloth. Refuges in the event of a fire include clearings, streets or wide paths.

Behavior in the event of fire

It is important to remain calm in a fire hazard situation. If a fire is discovered, it is advisable to move away to the side and immediately inform the fire department on the emergency number 112. When creating fire hazards, people are encouraged to rely on the danger levels and practice preventive behavior to avoid wildfires.

Everyone should also know that most wildfires are caused by human error. The danger to forests has increased in recent years, not least due to climatic conditions. The DWD notes that the risk of forest fires has increased primarily due to increased temperatures and declining precipitation, so the connections can be clearly seen, as well as on [DWD.de]. in%205%20Danger levels%20an%3A, assessment%C3%A4ess%20of%20forest fire danger%20and%20for%20issue%20of%20warnings.) to read. So let's take advantage of the warnings and protect our forests and nature!