Wildfires in Germany 2025: Which States Are Affected and What to Know

Introduction

Fire brigades across multiple German federal states are currently engaged in large-scale operations to contain forest and field fires. Prolonged dry weather has left vegetation parched and highly flammable, meaning even small sparks — including those generated during agricultural harvests — are enough to ignite serious blazes. For expats and immigrants living in Germany, especially those in or near rural, forested, or agricultural regions, this is an important public safety issue to follow closely. Understanding local fire warnings and knowing what to do can make a real difference.

Which States Are Affected?

Reports confirm that firefighting operations are underway in several (multiple) Bundesländer simultaneously. While the specific states were not named in the initial report, historically the regions most prone to summer wildfires in Germany include Brandenburg, Saxony, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and parts of Bavaria. Dry spells in summer months regularly push the fire danger index (Waldbrandgefahrenindex) to its highest levels in these areas.

Locals and expats in any region with forested land or large agricultural fields should check the current fire danger rating for their area via the German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst, DWD) website or app.

What Is Causing the Fires?

The primary driver is sustained dry and warm weather, which reduces moisture in soil, grass, and woodland. Harvest season adds another layer of risk: farming machinery, friction from equipment, or even a carelessly discarded cigarette near a dry field can ignite a blaze that spreads rapidly.

Authorities have stressed that conditions are serious enough to warrant special caution even for routine outdoor activities — hiking, barbecuing, and camping in forested areas carry elevated risk during these periods.

How to Stay Safe: Practical Guidance for Residents

If you live in or plan to visit a region under elevated fire risk, here are the key precautions to follow:

• Check fire danger levels daily. The DWD publishes a daily Waldbrandgefahrenindex (forest fire danger index) at dwd.de. Levels range from 1 (low) to 5 (very high).
• Avoid open flames outdoors. Barbecuing, campfires, and smoking in or near forests and fields may be legally prohibited during high-risk periods. Fines can apply.
• Do not park vehicles on dry grass. Hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation.
• If you spot a fire, call 112 immediately. This is the universal emergency number in Germany for fire and medical emergencies — it works from any phone, including without a SIM card.
• Follow local authority instructions. In the event of an evacuation order, comply immediately and do not attempt to return to an affected area until authorities declare it safe.
• Keep windows and doors closed if smoke is present in your area, and limit time outdoors.

Understanding German Fire Alerts and Official Channels

Germany uses several channels to communicate emergency warnings to residents:

• NINA app (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App): The official federal warning app, available in the App Store and Google Play. It pushes alerts for fires, floods, and other emergencies by your location. Highly recommended for all residents.
• Katwarn: Another widely used emergency alert app in Germany.
• Local radio and municipal websites: In serious incidents, local authorities broadcast instructions via regional radio stations.

Expats who are not yet fluent in German should install the NINA app and consider following their local district (Landkreis) or city on social media, as many now post emergency updates in multiple languages or with visual guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be fined for starting a fire in the forest during a fire warning?

Yes. In Germany, lighting open fires in or near forests can be prohibited by law, especially when fire danger levels are elevated. Violations can result in significant fines. Some states have blanket bans on open fires in forests during dry summer periods regardless of official warning levels. Always check local regulations before any outdoor fire activity.

What should I do if I need to evacuate due to a wildfire near my home?

Follow instructions from local authorities immediately. Take essential documents with you (passport, Aufenthaltstitel, insurance cards, medication). If you have a car, avoid routes that pass near the fire. Contact a friend, family member, or your local emergency shelter point. If you are an asylum seeker or live in shared accommodation, inform the facility manager and follow their guidance. You can call the local non-emergency police line (110) for information if you are unsure what to do.

Where can I find fire danger information in English?

The DWD website (dwd.de) has some content in English. The NINA app displays alerts in German, but the information is location-specific and easy to interpret visually. Google Translate can help with German-language alerts in a pinch.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Wildfires are an increasingly common summer hazard in Germany, and the current situation affecting multiple states is a reminder that preparation matters. Download the NINA app, check fire danger levels in your area, and avoid any activity that could start a fire outdoors. If you live in a rural or forested area, take a few minutes to prepare a small emergency bag with your key documents. Stay safe and stay informed.

Source: Tagesschau