GRAZ, Austria — April 28, 2026 Graz forest fire spreads to 70 hectares as helicopters deployed A forest fire near Graz, Austria, has grown to approximately 70 hectares, with five helicopters deployed on Tuesday to combat the spreading flames.
Firefighting Efforts Intensify
The firefighting operation has escalated significantly since the blaze was first reported. On Saturday, 140 firefighters and two helicopters were initially deployed to contain the fire. By Sunday, the number of responders had surged to around 400 as the fire expanded to nearly 50 hectares.
Helicopter crews are now collecting water from various points and dropping it over the affected forest areas. The use of aerial resources highlights the severity of the fire, which has proven difficult to control due to its rapid spread. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but the efforts remain focused on containment and prevention of further damage.
Discovery and Initial Response
The fire was first noticed by a hiker on Saturday, who immediately alerted the authorities. The quick reporting allowed emergency services to mobilize rapidly, though the fire’s growth has outpaced initial containment efforts.
The Bezirksfeuerwehrkommando (District Fire Command) has been coordinating the response, with resources drawn from across the Steiermark region. The fire has primarily affected areas near Eisbach-Rein and Brandes, with smoke visible from Graz and surrounding communities.