2021

A Forest and Swamp Fire has Broken out in a Specially Protected Nature Territory in Vidzeme

In the specially protected nature territory “Lielais un Pemmes purvs” managed by JSC “Latvia’s State Forests” (LVM) in Sigulda Municipality, a forest and swamp fire broke out this morning, the extinguishing of which is extremely difficult because it is practically impossible to access it with equipment. Currently, the State Forest Service (SFS), the State Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), volunteer fire-fighters, and the National Armed Forces (NAF) are also working at the scene.

“Since the “Lielais un Pemmes purvs” is a specially protected nature area, access to the fire site is very difficult due to the lack of adequate infrastructure – the nearest place where you can approach with fire-fighting equipment is more than 1 km away. Moving around the swamp is basically possible only on foot. At the moment, there is a lot of smoke, which makes it difficult to understand and control the direction of fire spread,” says Edijs Leišavnieks, LVM Forest Protection and Fire Fighting Manager. 

Active fire-fighting works are currently taking place to understand how to control the fire. The SFS, 31 SFRS fire-fighters using nine tank trucks, as well as Inčukalns and Lēdurga volunteer fire-fighters are working at the scene. The NAF air helicopter, which carries water from above, is also involved in the extinguishing works.

JSC “Latvia’s State Forests” reminds that there is an increased fire hazard in the forests, and even the slightest presence of fire can cause a devastating forest fire; therefore, everyone who goes to nature must take special care!