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Belgium evacuates some areas as wildfire continues to spread
A wildfire that began Friday in the Hautes Fagnes nature reserve in eastern Belgium has affected more than 2,700 hectares. As the flames approached populated areas, evacuation orders were issued for parts of the municipalities of Waimes and Bütgenbach.
A wildfire burning in Belgium's Hautes Fagnes nature reserve has affected more than 2,700 hectares. The fire in Liège Province has not yet been brought under control.
As the flames spread rapidly, Belgium activated the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism. Three helicopters and two amphibious aircraft were sent to the fire zone.
Firefighting efforts are continuing from the air and on the ground, while numerous fire crews from across the country have been dispatched to the area. Soldiers, police officers and farmers are also taking part in the response.
Belgium's largest wildfire
The fire, which began Friday, has become the largest wildfire in Belgium's history despite remaining out of control. The blaze has exceeded the scale of the fire that affected about 1,400 hectares in 2011.
Evacuations in Waimes and Bütgenbach
As the fire approached populated areas, authorities ordered the evacuation of residents in parts of the municipalities of Waimes and Bütgenbach for their safety. The nearest sports hall was opened to provide shelter for those evacuated.
Residents were advised to keep their doors and windows tightly closed. Some roads in the surrounding area were also closed to traffic.
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