Major fire near Neustrelitz threatens power line; ammunition complicates firefighting

A major fire on a former Soviet tank training ground near Neustrelitz is escalating, now threatening a crucial power line. The fire is moving north due to wind, coming within 200 meters of high-voltage lines, which have been shut down by the operator Edis as a precaution. The power outage is not expected to affect consumers.

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The line was shut down by Edis.

Firefighters are facing extreme challenges as they cannot enter the fire-affected areas due to the presence of old ammunition. Instead, they have established a defense line using water sprayers. This tactic is crucial for containing the blaze, which has been burning since Wednesday and is considered one of the largest fires in the region in recent years.

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The line was shut down by Edis.

Further complicating efforts, the fire is located within the Müritz National Park. The risk of ammunition explosions necessitates a 1,000-meter safety distance for emergency crews. Efforts to protect a nearby ICE high-speed train line are also underway, with water tankers deployed to wet the area.

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The affected areas themselves cannot be entered by the fire department due to the heavy contamination with old ammunition.

The fire's progression is highly dependent on wind conditions. If the flames remain on the ground, firefighters have a good chance of stopping it. However, if the fire reaches the treetops, it could potentially jump over the defense lines, leading to a more widespread conflagration.

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Only the line itself has been cleared.