Belgium is currently facing a massive wildfire, with authorities struggling to contain it despite more favorable weather conditions and rainfall assisting the firefighting efforts. The fire, which has already scorched around 30 square kilometers in the Liège province, poses a significant challenge as it continues to burn underground in peaty soil and sporadically reignites, according to a fire ranger.
The scorching summer in Europe, marked by extreme heat and dryness, has been exacerbated by climate change, as highlighted in a recent study. King Philippe of Belgium interrupted his summer vacation to visit the emergency services combating the wildfire in the eastern High Fens region, approximately eight kilometers from the German border. Although the fire did not significantly expand, it remains uncontrolled in inaccessible areas, as reported by the Wallonia region.
A team of 500 firefighters, supported by aircraft from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands, along with local police drones, have been tirelessly battling the blaze. Despite overnight rain brought by a cold front aiding containment efforts, the fire persists in areas beyond the reach of ground crews. Farmers have joined forces to provide water supplies for firefighting, with helicopters dousing the flames with massive water drops.
Nicolas Yernaux, the spokesperson for Wallonia regional public services, mentioned that the blaze could continue for an extended period underground due to the peaty soil. The fire, which has penetrated deeply into the soil, can smolder unnoticed for weeks or even months before resurfacing. Evacuation orders remain in effect for residents, with concerns raised about the long-term environmental impact on the region.
In a different scenario, Greece faced its own wildfire crisis near the main airport on the outskirts of Athens, where a fire briefly erupted. The fire department swiftly responded, containing the blaze within 30 minutes with the assistance of firefighters, water-dropping planes, and helicopters. Additionally, an 80-year-old man was arrested on arson charges in Kavala for allegedly setting fire to dried vegetation intentionally.
In another part of Europe, specifically southwestern France, authorities announced the successful containment of a fire in the Landes region following four days of intense firefighting efforts. Residents who were evacuated due to the fire, which burned approximately 17 square kilometers, are now gradually returning home. The French Prime Minister pledged financial aid to support affected regions and rebuild homes and businesses impacted by the wildfires.
In Croatia, police apprehended four individuals suspected of deliberately starting multiple fires in the Zadar region, a popular tourist destination. The suspects are believed to have ignited fires with the intent to cause harm and damage to property, prompting an investigation into the extent of the destruction caused.