Belgium's biggest wildfire on record heads towards Germany
More than 250 firefighters and emergency workers are battling the blaze, while EU aircraft and helicopters have been sent to support evacuations.
- A massive wildfire in eastern Belgium's High Fens nature reserve has scorched more than 27 square kilometers since breaking out Friday, with firefighters battling what media describe as one of the country's worst-ever wildfires.
- Unusually hot weather with temperatures reaching about 37 C fueled the fire's rapid spread through the High Fens' fragile peatlands, while authorities warned the region's rugged terrain prevents emergency services from tackling flames at close quarters.
- Authorities ordered 600 residents in Waimes and Buetgenbach to evacuate Saturday, while more than 250 emergency personnel, including Belgian and German firefighters, deployed with support from European Union helicopters and water bombers.
- A gymnasium in Malmedy opened to shelter evacuees, where the Belgian Red Cross provides food and rest. Officials warn the fire remains close to residential areas, though no homes were affected as of Sunday morning.
- The fire sits about 3 kilometers from the German border, where officials in Monschau remain on alert. European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib called the blaze the latest sign of "climate upheaval" affecting the continent.
225 Articles
225 Articles
Rain helps, but the wind drives the smoke all the way to Cologne: Belgium's fire brigade continues to struggle in the Hohe Venn with the biggest forest fire since 1911.
Belgian Wildfire Approaches Germany as Peat Blaze Threatens to Burn for Months
Rain and cooler air on Aug. 17 brought the first measure of relief to the roughly 500 responders battling the largest wildfire in Belgium’s recent history, but officials warned that the blaze, which has burned deep into the protected peat bogs of the High Fens plateau near the German border, could keep flaring up for weeks or even months. “We are dealing with peat soils. Because fire does not need oxygen when it is burning within the peat, it ca…
The forest fire on the German-Belgian border continues to employ the forces. Currently, the fire brigade in Monschau is relaxed, but a change of wind direction is expected. More in the live ticker.
Rain has delayed the spread of the largest forest fire in Belgium's history on Monday. According to the authorities, the fire in the nature reserve Hohes Venn is partly under control, but the extinguishing work is likely to take a long time.
A historic fire near the German border puts pressure on Belgium's forces. Rain could bring relief. The Belgian king gets an impression on the spot.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
