Landshut's industrial fire sparks groundwater contamination concerns

Update on Groundwater Contamination in Landshut's Industrial District

Following reports of visible groundwater contamination in a confined area of Landshut's industrial district—referenced in the city's press release of August 27—officials have now received the results of emergency groundwater testing. The findings confirm initial suspicions: the groundwater is contaminated with pollutants typical of fire incidents. Tests detected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which form during the incomplete combustion of organic materials, as well as PFAS compounds, commonly found in firefighting foams, in garden wells affected by the foam. Additionally, elevated levels of arsenic were measured.

Preliminary assessments suggest the arsenic is likely geogenic—naturally occurring in the gravel layers—and was mobilized by the alkaline pH of the firefighting foam. Authorities currently do not expect long-term severe contamination, though further investigations are ongoing or planned.

Precautionary Measures for Affected Residents Due to the detected levels, property owners in the designated zone (see attached map) must continue to avoid using groundwater—for example, for garden irrigation via well water. Under no circumstances should this water be used for drinking or bathing (such as in paddling pools filled with well water), particularly for children, the elderly, or individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

While contamination has so far been limited to the immediate vicinity of the fire site, with no evidence of wider spread, the warning remains in place for the entire area as a precaution. In urgent cases where groundwater use is unavoidable, property owners are advised to independently collect and test samples.

Call for Reports Owners of garden wells producing foamy water are urged to contact the Office for Environmental Protection, Climate, and Nature Conservation at environment@ourwebsite, providing the address of the affected property. This will help refine the boundaries of the contaminated area.

Next Steps The focus of ongoing investigations is to monitor both the evolution of pollutant concentrations and the potential spread of contaminants. Relevant city departments are coordinating closely with the Water Management Authority and the Public Health Office.

Drinking Water Safety Confirmed According to Landshut Municipal Utilities, the city's tap water supply remains unaffected, as the source wells are located far from the fire site in the western part of the city.