The forest fire on the Brocken in the Harz region is now under control. Numerous fire brigades and several firefighting planes have been in action since Friday. Initial estimates suggest the fire has caused up to three million euros in damages. The police are investigating the cause of the fire, with suspicions of arson, although the national park director doubts this.
After overnight rain, the situation at the Brocken forest fire in the Harz has eased. In the coming days, the area will be intensively checked for embers, including with thermal imaging cameras. Firefighting efforts will continue, with firefighting planes and helicopters on standby. The focus will be on extinguishing remaining fires, with around 50 personnel. The adjacent moorland caused concern for the emergency services. A fire had spread there, although efforts were made to prevent the flames from reaching a high moor.
According to local authorities it is possible that the fire on the Brocken was deliberately set. The fire broke out simultaneously in several places on Friday 6th September according to video footage. The police have initiated an investigation on the cause of the fires. Information on the cause will only be possible once investigators can examine the fire site.
More info:
Liveticker zum Waldbrand im Harz: Feuerwehr kämpft am Boden gegen Restfeuer | MDR.DE