Forest fire breaks out in Germany: 500 people evacuated

It has been announced that efforts are underway to combat a forest fire that broke out yesterday in the Harz Mountains in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt. In a statement from the Harz District Administration, it was noted that the fire, which began yesterday on Brocken Mountain, the highest peak in the Harz range, has spread.

The statement indicated that a 1,000-meter-long area on the mountain is burning, and it is not yet possible to determine how many hectares have been affected.

It was reported that the fire could not be brought under control as of last night, the National Park on Brocken Mountain has been closed, and approximately 500 people, mostly tourists, hikers, and athletes, were evacuated from the area by bus.

The statement included information that the flames are being fought with one aircraft and one helicopter, with 150 firefighters on duty, and that three additional aircraft and one more helicopter are expected to support the firefighting efforts during the day.

Meanwhile, it was stated that a forest fire that broke out around the town of Oranienbaum in the east of the state is also being addressed with two helicopters, and residents of the area have been urged to keep their doors and windows closed to avoid being affected by the smoke.

News Source: AA