Fire bans imposed in Swiss Gossau and Austrian St. Veit districts amid drought

The municipality of Gossau in the Hinwil district of the Zurich canton extended a cantonal fire ban on 13 July 2026 because of persistent dryness. The local order forbids open fires, wood‑fuel grilling, discarding burning cigarettes, sky lanterns, fireworks and high fires until further notice.

In Austria, the political district of St. Veit an der Glan also introduced a fire ban on 13 July 2026, which will remain in effect until 30 September 2026. The ordinance bans any fire ignition and smoking in forests and nearby areas. Violations can incur fines of up to €7,270 or up to four weeks’ imprisonment. A recent garden fire in Althofen resulted in the deaths of two chickens and a duck.