Lithuania records 920 grass fires this year as dry conditions raise risks

Lithuania’s Fire Protection and Rescue Department (PAGD) reports that firefighters have responded to 920 grass, forest floor, and reed fires since the start of the year, with three people injured and 477 hectares of land burned, LRT writes.

While the number of open-area fires has dropped by nearly a third (29.2%) compared to the same period last year, they still account for over a quarter of all fires nationwide. The majority occur in unwatered meadows, with Vilnius and Kaunas districts seeing the highest incidence.

“Though the number of fires has decreased this spring, the situation remains serious,” said Kęstutis Agintas, deputy director of PAGD. “Each fire can spread rapidly and become uncontrollable—especially in windy, dry conditions. This year, we’ve already had injuries, cases where flames reached buildings, and 21 structures saved by firefighters.”

Authorities attribute most blazes to human negligence, including unsupervised bonfires, burning waste, or deliberate grass burning. To curb violations, firefighters have conducted over 200 preventive patrols this year, identifying 12 cases of illegal grass burning. Fines may apply, and offenders could face additional costs for environmental damage or destroyed property.

Residents are urged to report fires immediately via the emergency number 112 and to avoid actions that could spark blazes. Prevention efforts include collaboration with environmental agencies, foresters, and the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union, as well as drone surveillance of high-risk areas.