Fire Engulfs Gohrischheide Neighborhood, Forcing Evacuation of Neudorf Residents - Evacuation in Neudorf Following Gohrischheide Fire
A forest fire in Gohrischheide, situated at the border between Saxony and Brandenburg, remains uncontrolled as of July 3, 2025. The blaze, which started on July 1, has engulfed over 200 hectares, with some reports suggesting the affected area may have increased to 600 hectares [1][2].
The fire has already forced the evacuation of nearby communities like Heidehaeuser and a care home for disabled individuals [2]. The neighbouring town of Neudorf, located in close proximity, is also under threat due to the fire's northward spread [1].
Authorities have deployed firefighting teams from both Saxony and Brandenburg, with the number of personnel increased to around 480 overnight [1]. However, the fight against the fire is complicated by the terrain – a former military training ground with remaining munitions – and the ongoing record-breaking heatwave across Europe [2][4].
To support ground crews, authorities are considering using helicopters from federal or state police for an aerial overview and potential assistance in suppression [1]. In Brandenburg, the situation is gradually improving due to a shift in wind direction, reducing the fire's northern spread and smoke impact there.
In response to the evacuation orders, police officers are going door-to-door in Neudorf, a small town with 269 registered residents, to advise them to leave their homes [1]. A multi-purpose hall in the nearby town of Röderau has been made available for evacuated residents to stay in [1].
Residents are asked to take only essential items when evacuating, and a warning about the fire was issued via the Nina warning app [1]. Despite a brief rain in Neudorf, it did not provide any relief from the fire.
A middle-aged man from Neudorf expressed his concerns, stating it is difficult to get used to living in such a dangerous area due to the forest fire [1]. The authorities continue to work tirelessly to contain the fire, though full control has not yet been achieved.
The community is urgently reviewing their policy regarding evacuations and emergency response measures in light of the ongoing forest fire [1]. To aid in understanding the effects of the fire on climate-change, environmental-scientists are closely monitoring weather patterns and weather-forecasting data related to the fire [3]. Furthermore, concerned citizens and environmental advocates are urging local authorities to prioritize long-term reforestation efforts and environment conservation post-fire.
