Belgium is currently facing a large-scale wildfire that continues to burn uncontrollably, despite recent cooler weather and rainfall that have provided some relief to firefighting efforts. The fire, located in the eastern High Fens region near the German border, is expected to persist for an extended period as it smolders underground in peat soil and sporadically reignites.
Europe is experiencing severe heat and dry conditions this summer, attributed to climate change according to recent studies. King Philippe of Belgium interrupted his summer vacation to visit the emergency services combatting the wildfire, which has already consumed approximately 30 square kilometers of land, leaving charred trees and smoldering terrain.
Although the fire did not significantly spread, it remains uncontained in remote areas inaccessible to ground crews, as confirmed by authorities in the Wallonia region. Over 500 firefighters, along with support from international aircraft and local police utilizing drones, have been deployed to combat the blaze. Farmers are assisting by providing water supplies for firefighting operations, as helicopters drop large volumes of water to douse the flames.
A forest ranger explained that the fire’s deep-seated nature in the peat soil may cause it to burn underground for months, potentially rekindling in the future. Evacuation orders are in place for hundreds of residents, with concerns raised about the impact on wildlife in the region.
In Greece, a wildfire near the main airport outside Athens was swiftly contained, with firefighting teams responding promptly. Additionally, a separate fire was extinguished in southwestern France after days of intense efforts, allowing evacuated residents to begin returning home. French authorities have pledged financial aid for affected regions to support reconstruction efforts.
Meanwhile, in Croatia, authorities are investigating suspected arson incidents where individuals allegedly started multiple fires in the Zadar area. The suspects have been apprehended, and investigations are ongoing to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fires.