2026-08-12: A forest fire broke out Tuesday evening (11 August, local time) near Plauen, Saxony, prompting the closure of parts of the B173 federal highway. Reportedly, firefighters were working to contain the blaze, but steep and inaccessible terrain forced crews to approach the fire on foot. Residents within a 2-kilometre radius were advised to keep windows and doors closed because of smoke.
Travellers need to anticipate local road closures and should inform themselves about the current situation before undertaking overland journeys. Warnings and instructions of local authorities and media should be strictly followed.
