High fire risk for St. John’s Eve as dry, windy weather raises concerns

Denmark faces elevated fire risk this St. John’s Eve, with dry, warm, and windy conditions increasing the chance that bonfires could spiral out of control, national broadcaster DR reports.

Bjarne Niegaard, director of Danske Beredskaber (Danish Emergency Services), warned that the holiday traditionally sees a surge in fire incidents. Over the past five years, emergency services have responded to an average of 68 fires on St. John’s Eve, compared to 27 on regular evenings, according to data from the Agency for Emergency Management.

This year, the risk is heightened. The fire danger index shows “very high” risk—meaning ignition from embers or small flames is highly likely—in parts of South and West Zealand. Forecasts predict conditions will worsen by Tuesday, with parts of Funen and East Jutland also reaching the second-highest risk level.

Niegaard emphasized that while there is no nationwide ban on bonfires, placement is critical. Bonfires must be at least 30 meters from buildings and 60 meters from fields and plantations, with distances doubled in the wind’s direction. He urged the public to avoid areas near flammable vegetation and to ensure bonfires are fully extinguished before leaving.

Official guidelines also advise against using accelerants like gasoline or alcohol, and recommend burning only dry, untreated wood. Wild animals may seek shelter in bonfire piles, so checking for wildlife before lighting is advised.