Belgium is facing a significant wildfire, with the blaze continuing to burn despite improved weather conditions aiding firefighting efforts. At the same time, in Greece, a fire erupted near Athens’ main airport before being swiftly contained.
The wildfire in Belgium is expected to persist for an extended period underground in peaty soil, occasionally rekindling, 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 summer vacation to visit emergency services battling the wildfire in the eastern High Fens region, approximately eight kilometers from the German border. The fire has scorched around 30 square kilometers of land, leaving charred trees and smoldering terrain.
Although the fire did not significantly grow due to favorable winds, it remains uncontrolled in inaccessible areas, as reported by the Wallonia region. Around 500 firefighters, supported by aircraft from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands, along with local police drones, are combating the blaze.
Farmers are assisting in providing water for firefighting operations, with helicopters dropping vast amounts of water over the flames. The fire, which is challenging to access, continues to burn towards Monschau in Germany.
In Greece, firefighters examined a wildfire on the island of Salamina that resulted in casualties and property damage. Additional wildfires broke out, including one near Athens, swiftly contained within 30 minutes. An elderly man was arrested on arson charges in Kavala.
In southwestern France, a fire in the Landes region has been brought under control after displacing residents for four days during extreme heat. Efforts are underway to assist affected regions with rebuilding homes and supporting businesses impacted by the wildfires.
The situation remains critical in various parts of Europe due to the ongoing wildfires, prompting significant efforts to combat and prevent further incidents.
