Forest fire warning issued for southern and eastern Norway

The Norwegian Meteorological Institute has issued a yellow warning for forest fire risk across large parts of southern and eastern Norway, effective immediately.

In a post on X, the institute urged the public to avoid open flames in the affected areas and to follow instructions from local authorities. The warning covers the region from Kristiansand to the Swedish border in the east, including the entire Østlandskysten coast.

Vakthavende meteorologist Julie Solsvik Vågane told Dagbladet that the risk is expected to rise on Friday and Saturday, with the severity depending on rainfall. “It depends heavily on where the showers hit. Some are forecast here and there in the coming days. We hope they will be heavy,” she said.

Earlier on Thursday, meteorologist Tone Christin Thaule estimated that at least 20 millimetres of rain would be needed to significantly reduce the risk. “It will take a lot. A light shower won’t be enough—it needs to be heavy enough to thoroughly soak the ground and keep it wet,” Thaule said.

The Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) has increased helicopter readiness in response to the elevated risk. Norway typically maintains forest fire helicopter preparedness from 15 April to 15 August. Open fires are generally prohibited nationwide between 15 April and 15 September, with local authorities able to impose total bans during periods of extreme risk.