Peter Kern, spokesman for the Troisdorf fire services, said yesterday evening that forces were able to bring the fire under control at around 6pm and prevent any further spread. The exact size of the fire was initially unclear but it was extensive because of constantly changing winds. Forces were able to obtain a more precise assessment from a helicopter that navigated through a massive cloud of smoke. According to Achim Irmes from the Federal Forestry Office Wahner Heide, “only” ground vegetation was alight and no trees. “It is a classic forest fire,” said the forestry official.

The airport fire brigade was alerted at around 1pm and handed over to the Troisdorf brigade. “Everything started with a report from a pilot, who told the airport ‘Something is burning’,” explained the officer in charge, Stefan Gandelau. As the size of the fire became apparent, more and more forces were required including from Lohmar, Sankt Augustin, Hennef, Eitdorf, Bad Honnef, Königswinter, Siegburg, Neunkirchen-Seelscheid, Niederkassel and Bonn.

According to Michael Gschoß from the army, the operation was made more dangerous for those helping as there was at times a risk of explosion. According to the Brigadier-General, parts of the affected area belong to a practice area on which artillery ammunition has been heavily used since the imperial era.

The fire spread over time further and further into the wood. Adjacent streets were full of smoke. The fire did not affect air traffic. Police said yesterday evening that there was no evidence of arson. However, it could not be ruled out that the fire started through negligence. The criminal investigation department has taken over enquiries.

(Original text: Jens Kleinert. Translated by Kate Carey.)