The large forest fire raging between Norberg and Avesta in Västmanland is now surrounded.
But it is still burning heavily and the rescue service is waiting for help from the defence.
– We dare not say that it is under control, says rescue leader Mats Jansson.
Airplanes, helicopters and about 40 firefighters on the ground are fighting the large forest fire that has been raging outside Norberg and Västmanland since Midsummer Eve.
Wind turbines in the area have had to be shut down in connection with the extinguishing work in which personnel from several fire stations participate.
The fire area is approximately seven hectares in size. On Tuesday afternoon, the emergency services were waiting for help from the Home Guard.
– We are planning for extinguishing for at least two days ahead. That forecast can of course change, but we have such a long planning horizon now, says Mats Jansson.
The fire surrounded
On Monday, the fire service had surrounded the fire. But gusts of wind created a so-called top fire, meaning it started burning high up in the tree canopy, causing the fire to spread.
Now the firefighters have once again managed to surround the fire.
– But there is still a risk of spread, says Mats Jansson.
The conditions this time look better, according to the rescue leader.
– The situation is quite different from last night. Now we have containment lines (areas of soaked ground around the fire, ed. note) and we also have fire hoses throughout the area to secure the outer edges. We are in a much better position now, says Mats Jansson.
The municipality in staff mode
Norberg municipality went into staff mode early on Tuesday morning. The municipality assists the rescue service with, among other things, delivering food and water to the rescue personnel.
– We are prepared for the fact that we may not get control of the fire in the near future, even if we think we will. We are preparing to see what social disturbances it can cause, says Christian Foster, municipal manager in Norberg.