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Wildfire 4/5 high BAFU-WALDBRAND

Wildfire: elevated danger level in Kanton Bern

Unchanged since the first report last verified 18:13 CEST

Summary

Kanton Bern is under a level 4 out of 5 forest fire danger warning. Smoke, fine particles and possible evacuations affect a wide area.

What hazard threatens

Extensive forest and surface fires may reach residential areas and produce smoke laden with fine particles, irritating the airways and severely reducing visibility. Evacuations are possible if the fire spreads.

Local weather conditions

Measuring station Thun, 570 m a.s.l. — reference station for the canton

Precipitation, 30 days before the warning

27 mm

Daily maximum

32.4 °C

on the day of the warning · Reported at 02:00

Strongest gust

35 km/h

on the day of the warning · Reported at 02:00

Day of warning and following days

  • Sun 02.08. 32° 14° measured

As of: Values as at the time of the warning; they are not updated afterwards.

Source: MeteoSwiss

Context & protective measures

Background: forest and surface fires occur in Switzerland mainly during dry summers and in Ticino. The main danger to the population is not only the flames but the smoke and fine particles that irritate the airways and severely reduce visibility. The FOEN rates the danger by region on a five-level scale; at high levels, fire bans often apply.

Recommendation

Likelihood medium, impact high. Strictly observe regional fire bans, avoid any open fire outdoors, and prepare using the guide 'Protection in a wildfire'.

What to do now

Do not light any outdoor fire, close windows and ventilation if smoke appears, stay indoors, keep escape routes clear with an emergency kit ready, and follow authorities' evacuation orders immediately.

Risk matrix

Affected area

The warning applies to the entire canton.

Official sources