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Zurich and Winterthur lift fire bans after rainfall
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ญ Switzerland /Environment & Climate

Zurich and Winterthur lift fire bans after rainfall

From Neue Zรผrcher Zeitung · () German

Translated from German and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • The cities of Zurich and Winterthur have lifted their absolute fire bans due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures.
  • Charcoal grilling is now permitted in many areas, particularly on balconies and terraces.
  • However, lighting fires in forests and near them remains strictly forbidden due to continued dry conditions.

Residents in Zurich and Winterthur can now enjoy outdoor grilling after weeks of strict fire bans. Recent rainfall and a drop in temperatures have eased drought conditions in urban areas, prompting city officials to lift the prohibitions.

The city of Zurich announced that the fire and fireworks ban, imposed in mid-July, is now rescinded for built-up areas. Similarly, Winterthur has also lifted its absolute fire ban, effective Friday afternoon. While Zurich's ban is fully lifted, Winterthur maintains a ban on fireworks.

Despite the relief, caution is still advised. Zurich emphasizes that open fires in residential areas should be approached with care, and outdoor fires should be avoided during strong winds. The cantonal ban on fires in and near forests remains in effect. Officials note that forests require more time to recover from the prolonged dry spell, with the topsoil, leaves, and deadwood still not sufficiently moist.

About this summary

Originally published by Neue Zรผrcher Zeitung in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.