A large blaze near Bad Kreuznach in Rhineland-Palatinate, which broke out during the intense heatwave at the end of June, served as a reminder that wildfire risks are no longer confined to southern Europe. For residents in Germany who live near forests or simply enjoy spending time in nature during the summer, there are several official apps and alert systems that can help you keep track of wildfire risks, receive emergency warnings and stay informed if a fire breaks out nearby. Germany’s main source of
wildfire risk information is the German Weather Service (DWD). The DWD publishes a daily Forest Fire Danger Index (Waldbrandgefahrenindex or WBI), which shows wildfire danger levels – but not the location of active fires. The system uses a number of factors to assess danger levels, including temperature, rainfall, humidity and wind. Areas are rated on a scale from one to five, with one meaning very low danger and five meaning very high danger. The maps are updated daily and include forecasts several days ahead, allowing
people to check conditions before heading into forests, nature parks or hiking areas. One of the most useful tools for staying informed is WarnWetter, the official weather app from the German Weather Service (DWD), which is available in English. In its free version, the app provides official weather warnings for Germany down to municipal level, along with information on severe weather and natural hazards. Users can save their current location or other favourite locations and receive push notifications for important weather events. READ ALSO: IN
NUMBERS – Yes, summers in Germany really are getting hotter The paid version of the app offers additional features, including access to the DWD’s Forest Fire Danger Index and Grassland Fire Index (available for free on the DWD website – see above). Users can also view interactive maps, forecasts and detailed weather information up to seven days in advance. For emergency information, the most important app is NINA (the Emergency Information and News App), Germany’s official civil protection warning app. NINA sends push notifications for
major incidents, including large wildfires. READ ALSO: Should you get Germany’s extreme weather emergency warning app? Alerts can include information about affected areas and official safety instructions, including evacuation notices where necessary. Checking the DWD risk map before heading outdoors and keeping the NINA app installed are among the simplest ways to stay informed and safe during the wildfire season. Emergency alerts People in Germany may also receive emergency warnings through the Cell Broadcast system. Unlike an app, Cell Broadcast sends warning messages directly to
compatible mobile phones in a specific area. No registration is required and alerts are based on your location rather than your nationality or mobile provider. If authorities issue a warning because of a major wildfire or another serious emergency, a message can appear automatically on your phone with instructions on what to do. READ ALSO: Record EU wildfires ‘burnt more than 1 million hectares in 2025’ During a wildfire If you are in an area affected by a wildfire, pay close attention to official information
from NINA, local authorities and regional news outlets. If smoke is present, keep windows and doors closed. If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave promptly and follow instructions from emergency services. Anyone who spots a wildfire or rising smoke should call 112 immediately. Even if it turns out not to be a fire, calling in good faith will not result in penalties. Most forest fires in Germany are caused by human activity, particularly during hot and dry weather. Smoking is often prohibited in German forests
between March and October, and in some areas all year round. Open fires and barbecues are generally only permitted in designated locations. During periods of high wildfire danger, local authorities may introduce additional restrictions or advise people to avoid entering forests altogether.
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