Fire warning extended. Helicopters have already intervened 51 times

• Fire warning extended until August 6.
• Highest risk in Agder and Telemark.
• Five additional helicopters on standby.
• Seasonal fire ban in effect until September 15.
• 51 helicopter interventions since the beginning of the year.

In the coming days, some rain may fall in the affected regions. However, meteorologists warn that the rainfall may only improve the situation briefly. Very dry vegetation will dry out again quickly.

The situation is particularly difficult in eastern Norway and parts of Agder and Telemark. The ground and vegetation there are very dry and can easily catch fire.

Meteorologists warn that if a fire breaks out, it can quickly spread over a large area. Therefore, residents and tourists should avoid using open flames and follow local authority announcements.

This does not only apply to large bonfires. The risk can also be caused by disposable grills, cigarette butts, sparks from tools, or even a small fire pit set up near dry grass and forest.

The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning (DSB) has increased readiness with five additional firefighting helicopters. The enhanced protection will be in place until August 6. On that day, the situation will be reassessed.

Since the beginning of 2026, helicopters have already taken part in 51 fire operations. Among them was a large fire in Krokstadelva in Drammen.

The helicopters are primarily sent where fires can spread quickly and where ground operations alone may not be sufficient.

From April 15 to September 15, there is a general ban in Norway on lighting bonfires and using grills in forests and near forests or other uncultivated land if there is a risk of fire.

Local regulations may be even stricter. Before lighting a grill or fire, you should check your municipality's announcements. With the current risk level, it is safest to completely refrain from using open flames in nature.

• Do not light bonfires in the forest or near dry vegetation.
• Do not use disposable grills in the wild.
• Do not throw cigarette butts on the ground or out of car windows.
• Check announcements from your municipality and local fire department.
• If you see fire or smoke, report it immediately to emergency services.

Sources: NRK/NPK, DSB, Meteorological Institute.