Forest fire in Schwarzau: 300 firefighters on duty against flames!

Forest fire in Schwarzau: 300 firefighters on duty against flames!

A forest fire broke out in Schwarzau im Gebirge on March 8, 2025, which was caused by a burning vehicle. According to information from NÖN.at, over 300 firefighters from the Neunkirchen and Wiener Neustadt districts are on duty. According to the local fire department, residential areas are not at risk, but the thick smoke and flames are spreading in the steep, high alpine terrain, making extinguishing work more difficult. District fire brigade commander Josef Huber emphasized that the strong westerly wind was causing additional problems as it kept lighting new spot fires. He expressed his hope that the announced wind conditions would be more stable at night to make firefighting easier.

The burned area is currently estimated to be five to 10 hectares, and Huber explained that the embers are both above ground and deep underground, making containment of the fire particularly challenging. The emergency services receive support from helicopters and additional disaster service units. Mayor Peter Lepkowicz said that the situation was tense and that all necessary measures were being taken to bring the fire under control. According to the state fire brigade association, the operation could extend beyond the weekend NOEN.at reported.

A particular focus is on fighting the fire quickly and effectively to prevent it from spreading further. Huber confirmed that the fire brigade and other aid organizations are preparing comprehensively to fight the smoldering fire. Even if the situation is perceived as critical in some places, there remains hope that the fire will be controlled soon NÖN.at emphasized.