Forest fire near Plauen under control after overnight battle

Firefighters have brought a significant forest fire near Plauen, in Germany's Vogtland district, under control. The blaze, which erupted Tuesday evening, is considered the largest in the region in three decades, consuming about seven hectares of forestland.

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We are talking about the largest fire event that we have had in the forests and fields in the last 30 years.

Crews faced challenging conditions due to the terrain, which included steep slopes inaccessible to fire engines, and dense underbrush. Firefighters had to work on foot, extending hoses and clearing a firebreak. Aerial support from two water-bombing helicopters, drawing water from the Pöhl dam, was crucial, especially during daylight hours. These helicopters were scheduled to continue assisting on Thursday.

Despite the "all clear" given by the city on Wednesday morning, open flames were no longer visible, but dense white smoke persisted. The fire's control was aided by cool, moist air, but rekindling of embers due to gusting winds remained a concern. The city stated that the firefighting effort would likely extend through the night, with around 130 personnel still on site Wednesday evening.

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Due to the weather and ground conditions, completion of the firefighting operations is not expected within the next few hours; the operation will extend through the night.

Plauen's mayor, Steffen Zenner, described the event as the most significant fire in the area's forests and fields in the last 30 years. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Firefighters hoped for calmer winds and single-digit temperatures overnight to aid in cooling down remaining hot spots.

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It helps us currently that the air here is very moist and cool, which has a positive effect on the firefighting efforts.