Mountain in the Chiemgau Alps is on fire
A massive wildfire has engulfed part of a mountain in Germany's Chiemgau Alps, forcing authorities to declare a state of disaster as firefighters struggle to contain the rapidly spreading flames.
The fire broke out on the Saurüsselkopf mountain near Ruhpolding in the Traunstein district. Driven by steep terrain and difficult access, the blaze spread from the summit down the mountainside, making ground firefighting nearly impossible. Officials said the fire had expanded to around 50 to 60 hectares of forest.
With the situation worsening, local authorities declared a disaster emergency to mobilize additional resources. Firefighters from multiple regions, supported by police helicopters and German Armed Forces helicopters capable of carrying thousands of liters of water, were deployed to battle the flames from the air.
The wildfire is also threatening a protected drinking water source that supplies around 30,000 residents. Officials said protecting the spring has become one of the highest priorities, while emergency crews continue working around the clock to stop the fire from spreading further. Residents have been advised to stay away from the affected area and keep access roads clear for emergency vehicles. Smoke from the fire may also cause light ashfall in nearby areas.
Despite the enormous challenge, authorities later reported that firefighters had managed to temporarily halt the wildfire's expansion. However, they warned that the danger is far from over, with helicopters and hundreds of emergency personnel continuing operations as they work to fully extinguish the blaze and prevent new flare-ups.