Massive wildfire in Belgium approaches German border
One of the largest wildfires in Belgium's history has been burning for days near the German border, covering about 30 square kilometers. Peaty soil in the area could keep the fire smoldering underground for weeks or months.
A major wildfire continued burning in eastern Belgium on Monday, ranking among the largest such fires in the country's history. The blaze has spread across roughly 30 square kilometers of land near the border with Germany and has not yet been fully brought under control.
About 500 firefighters are working to contain the fire, supported by aircraft sent from Norway, Sweden, Germany and the Netherlands, along with helicopters and drones. Overnight rain and cooler temperatures helped slow the fire's spread, though flames continue to burn in some hard-to-reach areas.
Peat soil poses ongoing risk
Experts warn that the region's peaty soil could allow the fire to keep smoldering underground for weeks or even months, with the potential for flare-ups to recur periodically. As a precaution, evacuation orders remain in place for hundreds of residents in the area.
Other fires across Europe
In Greece, a fire that broke out near Athens International Airport was extinguished within about half an hour. However, an earlier fire on the island of Salamina claimed two lives and injured nine other people.
Meanwhile, firefighters in France and Croatia are still battling ongoing wildfires. Croatian police have detained four people near Zadar on suspicion of deliberately starting as many as ten fires.
