A massive wildfire in Belgium continued to burn uncontrollably on Monday, despite more favorable weather conditions for firefighters. At the same time, a fire erupted near Athens’ main airport in Greece.
The Belgian fire, located in the eastern High Fens region, was expected to persist underground in peaty soil for months and sporadically flare up. This devastating blaze has ravaged an estimated 30 square kilometers of land, leaving charred trees and smoldering ground in its wake.
Belgium’s King Philippe cut short his summer vacation to visit emergency services battling the wildfire, which has spread eastward towards the German border. Although the fire did not significantly grow, it remained uncontained in inaccessible areas, as reported by the Wallonia region.
Over 500 firefighters, supported by aircraft from several countries and local police drones, were combating the blaze. After overnight rain from a cold front, the situation was somewhat stabilized, with farmers assisting in water supply efforts. However, a Wallonia regional spokesperson warned that some parts were still inaccessible, with ongoing fires heading towards Monschau, Germany.
According to a forest ranger, the fire’s depth into the peaty soil could prolong its smoldering underground for weeks or even months, leading to potential flare-ups. Precautionary evacuation orders remained in place for hundreds of residents.
Meanwhile, in Greece, investigators examined the aftermath of a deadly wildfire on the island of Salamina, where two people lost their lives. New wildfires broke out near Athens, but were swiftly contained with the help of firefighters, water-dropping planes, and helicopters. Additionally, an elderly man was arrested on arson charges in Kavala, adding to the list of fire-related arrests in Greece this year.
In southwestern France, authorities announced that a fire in the Landes region was under control after four days of intense firefighting efforts. Over 600 residents had been evacuated during the blaze, which consumed about 17 square kilometers of land. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu pledged financial aid for affected regions to aid in reconstruction.
As wildfires wreak havoc across Europe, concerns over arson have arisen. In Croatia, four individuals were apprehended for allegedly starting multiple fires near Zadar. The suspects are accused of endangering lives and property, with investigations ongoing to assess the extent of the damage caused.