Hundreds of villagers evacuate as Belgium battles record wildfire
Summary
A large wildfire broke out in the High Fens nature reserve in eastern Belgium, leading to the evacuation of around 600 villagers. The fire has burned over 2,700 hectares of land, and emergency services from Belgium and other European countries are working to control it.Key Facts
- The wildfire started on August 14, 2026, in the High Fens park near the German border.
- More than 2,700 hectares (about 6,700 acres) were burned by August 15.
- Around 600 residents from nearby villages such as Sourbrodt and Buetgenbach were evacuated.
- Belgium called for help through the European Union civil protection mechanism, receiving helicopters and water bombers from other countries.
- The terrain is difficult, with peatlands and pine forests preventing emergency crews from working up close.
- A gym in Malmedy was opened as a shelter for displaced people.
- Authorities warned the fire was not under control and could threaten homes.
- This is described as the largest wildfire in Belgium's modern history, similar to a massive fire in 1911 during a heatwave and drought.
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