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Thunderstorm chaos in Bavaria: Lightning sets Alpine hut on fire!
Lightning strikes the Alpine hut in Balderschwang (Oberallgäu) and causes a major fire. 150 firefighters on duty.
Thunderstorm chaos in Bavaria: Lightning sets Alpine hut on fire!
A strong thunderstorm caused significant damage in Bavaria on Monday, June 23, 2025. The alpine hut on the “Alpe” Fuchsschelpen in Balderschwang was particularly affected, as it burst into flames after a lightning strike. Lightning struck the building directly, resulting in a devastating fire. According to Innsalzach24, the owner of the business section immediately noticed the fire and immediately alerted the fire department.
However, the rapid deployment of around 150 firefighters from various communities could not prevent the economic part of the Alm hut from burning down completely. The fire also spread to the roof structure of the residential building, which made extinguishing work even more difficult. Unfortunately, the cabin was located in a remote area, which presented firefighters with additional challenges. Despite the dangers, a calf in the stable was rescued in time; fortunately there were no injuries.
High property damage and extensive investigations
The amount of damage amounts to at least 500,000 euros. After all, the investigation into the cause of the fire has already begun, initiated by the Oberstdorf police station and the criminal investigation service in Memmingen. The Kempten Criminal Investigation Department will conduct further investigations. The effects of the storm were not only limited to Balderschwang; Numerous operations due to fallen trees were also recorded in other regions, such as Traunreut and Stein an der Traun.
Mini statistics on fires show that the unnecessary danger from lightning strikes and inadequate fire protection should not be underestimated. According to FeuerTrutz, the causes of fires can often be traced back to various factors. However, there is a lack of uniform statistics in Germany, which makes improving fire protection complicated. A good overview of the causes of fires could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Rescue in extreme weather conditions in neighboring countries
The thunderstorm didn't just cause excitement in Bavaria. In Dornbirn, Austria, 19 people were rescued in a gondola in extreme weather conditions. Such scenarios show how important it is to have both preventative and reactive measures in fire protection and in dealing with natural disasters.
The firefighting in Balderschwang is a striking example that lightning strikes, as can also be observed in other regions, should be taken seriously. Many alpine huts are often far from civilization and fighting fires in such remote areas can have life-threatening consequences.