As Mongolia enters its dry and windy spring season, the risk of forest and steppe fires has significantly increased, prompting emergency services to respond to multiple incidents across the country and urge heightened public vigilance.

In Khuder soum of Selenge Province, a forest and steppe fire broke out in the “Shorgoolj” area of Tarvagatai bag. The emergency call was received at 1:20 p.m. on March 23. Personnel from the Search and Rescue Unit of the provincial Emergency Management Agency, along with local professional teams, responded swiftly. Upon arrival, 18 local forestry workers equipped with three vehicles and two tractors had already begun firefighting operations. The blaze was contained by 10:26 p.m., and crews are continuing mop-up efforts to fully extinguish remaining hotspots. Preliminary estimates indicate that around six hectares of land were affected.

Meanwhile, in Bayandun soum of Dornod Province, a steppe fire was reported at 3:00 p.m. the same day. Local emergency response units and community teams acted promptly, successfully extinguishing the fire by 4:20 p.m., preventing further spread.

Another fire accident was reported in Durgun soum of Khovd Province, where reed beds on the bank of Durgun Lake caught fire. The alert was received at 5:30 p.m. on March 23, and a large-scale response was mobilized. Emergency personnel from Unit 48, along with local professional teams from Durgun and Chandmani soums, police officers, and local residents, totaling 95 people with 15 vehicles, are actively working to control and extinguish the blaze.

Authorities emphasize that most wildfires during this period are caused by human negligence. Citizens and herders are strongly urged to act responsibly by refraining from lighting open fires, fully extinguishing cigarette butts, and exercising extreme caution when traveling through forest and steppe regions.

With fire danger at a seasonal peak, residents are advised to avoid burning grass, waste, or agricultural residue in open areas. Even a small spark can quickly escalate into a large-scale wildfire under strong winds. Travelers should carry basic fire safety tools when moving through rural areas and immediately report any signs of smoke or fire to local authorities. Herders are encouraged to monitor their surroundings closely and ensure that campfires are completely extinguished before leaving. Staying alert and acting responsibly can play a crucial role in preventing devastating environmental and economic losses.