Major Fire at Hylte Peat Extraction Site Prompts Large-Scale Response
A large fire at a peat extraction site in Hylte has prompted extensive firefighting efforts and disrupted local transport.
Key Points
- • Fire broke out Friday morning at a peat extraction site and continued into Saturday evening.
- • Over 40 firefighting units and military personnel are involved in the effort to combat the fire.
- • The fire has disrupted rail services between Kinnared and Landeryd.
- • Smoke was reported affecting areas as far as Hallands Väderö.
A significant fire erupted at a peat extraction site in Hylte municipality on Friday morning, May 17, 2025, and continued into Saturday evening. Firefighters are currently grappling with the blaze under concerning weather conditions that include rising winds and heat, which could potentially worsen the situation. The fire has been reported primarily in the Kråkeryd and Sjögärdestorp areas, and its effects have been felt beyond the immediate vicinity, with smoke reported by residents in Hallands Väderö.
In response to the rapidly spreading fire, which was likely triggered by machinery used in peat extraction, over 40 firefighting units have been deployed to the scene. This includes the assistance of two helicopters and around 20-25 military personnel. Although firefighters were able to lift the 'VMA' (Important Message to the Public) by Friday evening as wind conditions improved, operations continued throughout the night to contain the active fire.
The fire, which ignited early Friday morning, has raised serious concerns regarding environmental impacts, especially considering its proximity to local forest areas bordering to Gislaveds municipality. Authorities are keenly aware of the fire's potential hazards as they implement firefighting and containment measures.
As the firefighting efforts continue, the situation remains dynamic with active monitoring of both the fire's progress and weather conditions.