One of the largest wildfires in Belgium continues to burn uncontrollably, with cooler weather and rain offering some relief to firefighters. In Greece, a fire briefly erupted near the main airport on the outskirts of Athens.
The Belgian fire, located in the eastern High Fens region, may persist underground in peaty soil for months, periodically flaring up, according to a fire ranger. Europe is experiencing one of its hottest and driest summers on record, attributed to climate change.
King Philippe of Belgium interrupted his vacation to visit emergency services combating the wildfire that has scorched an estimated 30 square kilometers in Liège province. Despite favorable winds limiting growth, the fire remains out of control in inaccessible areas, stated the Wallonia region.
Approximately 500 firefighters, assisted by aircraft from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands, along with local police drones, are combating the blaze. Farmers are aiding in providing water for firefighting efforts, with helicopters dropping water over the burning areas.
In Greece, a swift-moving wildfire on the island of Salamina resulted in two fatalities, nine injuries, and the destruction of several homes. Additional wildfires erupted in different locations, including one near Athens that was swiftly contained.
A forest ranger mentioned that the Belgian fire could smolder underground for an extended period due to the peaty soil. Precautionary evacuation orders are in place for residents, with concerns raised about the impact on wildlife and the environment.
In southwestern France, a fire in the Landes region has been brought under control after residents were evacuated for four days. The French government has pledged financial aid to support those affected by the wildfires in the region.
The ongoing heatwave and wildfires across Europe have created challenging conditions, with authorities urging caution and preventive measures. In Croatia, suspects have been arrested for allegedly starting multiple fires near the town of Zadar, a popular tourist destination on the Adriatic coast.