Drought strains Burgenland crews as wildfire deployments rise

Burgenland has recorded 250 firefighting operations involving vegetation fires so far this year, compared with about 100 last year, ORF reported. The increase comes as the region experiences its driest year since measurements began.

About two weeks ago, around four hectares of forest burned near Sieggraben. Roughly 100 firefighters battled the blaze, while the S31 road was closed because of heavy smoke. Last weekend, a vegetation fire broke out between Klingenbach and Baumgarten, probably also caused by flying sparks.

Water supplies create logistical challenges

Bringing water to fires is often difficult for volunteer fire brigades, said Thomas Jandrasits, who is responsible for vegetation fires at the Burgenland Fire Brigade Association. Several water tenders are usually brought in from across the region to provide enough water, while crews must continuously maintain reserve supplies.

Water often has to be transported across difficult terrain. Three years ago, 16 vegetation-fire support centres were established in Burgenland, with equipment purchased across the state. Jandrasits called the decision wise. More firefighters are currently being trained to deal with vegetation fires.

Growing role for aircraft and drones

Aviation services are also becoming more important in fighting vegetation fires. Burgenland has not yet needed a firefighting helicopter, Jandrasits said, but neighbouring states have. When units require support, aviation teams and drones equipped with thermal-imaging cameras can be deployed.

The additional equipment also increases the workload because firefighters must be trained to use it.

Most fires caused by people

Jandrasits appealed to the public to take care, saying that 80 percent of vegetation fires were caused by people, including discarded cigarettes and sparks. He also warned against parking cars on meadows or near forests, saying this could start a fire.

Rain in parts of Burgenland has not significantly reduced the danger. There was too little rain to have an effect, Jandrasits said, and the risk of forest fires remains acute. Three to four days of continuous rain would be needed to bring a positive change.