Rain Eases Fire Risk, Raising Hopes for Osterfeuer in NRW

Recent rainfall has reduced forest fire danger in North Rhine-Westphalia, but safety concerns and uneven weather persist in Thüringen.

Forest fire risk in North Rhine-Westphalia has dropped to level 2, with forecasts suggesting it could soon reach level 1, the lowest danger level.
Local authorities in NRW are deliberating event permissions for Osterfeuer celebrations after weeks of dryness raised safety concerns.
In Thüringen, scattered showers are expected, but uneven rainfall means fire risks remain high in some areas, prompting caution from fire departments.
Environmental and animal rights groups have criticized Osterfeuer traditions, citing risks to wildlife sheltering in firewood piles.
The Thüringer Feuerwehrverband has issued safety warnings, urging against the use of accelerants and recommending proper fire management practices.