Natural Rahren conference 2024: Prevention against climate change and forest fires

Natural Rahren conference 2024: Prevention against climate change and forest fires

from November 4th to 7th, 2024, the natural hazard conference took place in Tulln, Lower Austria, the experts from different areas. Around 130 experts, including representatives of emergency services, municipalities, regional and national organizations, as well as scientists, discussed current challenges in the field of natural hazards.

A central topic during the event was the risk of forest fire, especially in the context of climate change. In addition, the experiences from the heavy rain and flood event in September 2024 were examined. Practical demonstrations to combat vegetation fires were presented by the Lower Austrian State Fire Brigade Association on the practice site of the fire and security center Tulln.

awarding of the "natural hazards in climate change Award 2024"

As part of the conference, the “Natural Rounds in Climate Change Award 2024” was awarded. The award was clear to a joint project by the regions! Bunchy world - changing country, climate -wide upper Feistritztal, recreational region of Joglland as well as Dechanskirchen and Vorau. This project has developed an important district and federal state-circuit card for forest fire fighting, which is supported by 108 municipalities and 212 fire departments. This innovation shows how important cooperation and network work are in the fight against the effects of climate change.

Dietmar Fahrafellner, the state fire brigade commander of Lower Austria, emphasized that combating forest fires has a high priority and is part of its comprehensive disaster management. Lower Austria has already taken measures to prepare for the increasing risk of forest fire. This includes the use of over 600 specially trained firefighters and modern technology that enable an effective reaction to fires.

important knowledge and outlook on future conferences

Andreas Schaffhauser, the scientific general director of the Geosphere Austria, emphasized the need for close cooperation between all institutions involved in natural hazards. Meteorological data show an increase in harmful natural events, which is largely due to climate change. The exchange of knowledge and experience between experts is considered crucial for the development of effective measures.

The natural hazard conference 2024 has once again shown how important a lively exchange is between the different organizations that are confronted with natural hazards. Matthias Themeßl from Geosphere Austria announced that the plans for the next conference in 2025 were already underway to continue dialogue and find new solutions for the challenges in the field of natural hazards.

For more information, See the current reporting on www.zamg.ac.at .