In Belgium, a massive wildfire continued to burn uncontrollably on Monday, despite more favorable weather conditions and rain aiding firefighting efforts. A fire ranger mentioned that the blaze could persist underground for months in peaty soil and sporadically reignite. The scorching and dry summer in Europe, exacerbated by climate change according to a recent study, has fueled the ongoing wildfires.
King Philippe of Belgium interrupted his vacation to visit emergency services battling the wildfire in the eastern High Fens region, near the German border. The fire, which recently spread to a pine forest, has ravaged approximately 30 square kilometers, leaving charred trees and smoldering ground. Although the fire did not significantly expand, it remained uncontained in inaccessible areas, as per the Wallonia region authorities.
Over 500 firefighters, supported by aircraft from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands, along with local police drones, were engaged in the firefighting operation. Farmers also assisted by providing water supplies. Despite overnight rain brought by a cold front aiding containment efforts, a spokesperson for the Wallonia regional public services noted that the fire was still burning in remote areas towards Monschau, Germany.
According to a forest ranger, the fire could persist underground for an extended period due to the peaty soil, with the potential to flare up again. Evacuation orders remained in effect for numerous residents, with concerns raised about the impact on wildlife in the region.
In Greece, firefighters swiftly extinguished a fire near the main airport in Athens, following a fast-moving blaze on the island of Salamina that resulted in casualties and property damage. The fire department reported new wildfires erupting in various locations, including one in Spata, east of Athens, which was swiftly contained.
Elsewhere in France, a wildfire in the Landes region was brought under control after days of firefighting, allowing evacuated residents to return home. The French Prime Minister announced financial aid to support the affected regions’ recovery efforts.
In Croatia, authorities arrested four individuals suspected of deliberately starting multiple fires in the Zadar region. The suspects were apprehended following tips from residents and are under investigation for endangering lives and property.
The impact of the wildfires across Europe highlights the urgent need for preventive measures and heightened vigilance amid the escalating climate crisis.