Residents of two villages in eastern Belgium have been evacuated as a major wildfire burns across about 1,600 hectares in the High Fens nature reserve.
The fire started on Friday and spread rapidly through woodland and heathland near the German border, prompting authorities to evacuate parts of Sourbrodt and Buetgenbach.
Firefighters from across Belgium have been deployed to battle the blaze, supported by helicopters and water-bombing aircraft from other European countries.
Authorities said the difficult terrain, including peat bogs and heathland, has made it challenging for emergency crews to access some areas. The fire remained uncontrolled as of Saturday, with officials warning that flames could reach nearby homes.
Belgium activated the European Union’s civil protection mechanism to secure additional firefighting support. Aircraft from Sweden, along with helicopters from the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, were deployed to assist with the operation.
Farmers and other residents have also provided support, using their equipment to help emergency crews supply water and contain the flames.
The wildfire comes amid a period of intense heat in Belgium, with temperatures reaching 37 degrees Celsius in parts of the country.
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders, while those nearby have been advised to remain indoors and keep their doors and windows closed because of the smoke.
