Belgium mobilized as historic wildfire devastates protected forest area

Monday 17 August 2026 - 08:31

By: Sahili Aya Sahili Aya

Belgium mobilized as historic wildfire devastates protected forest area

A massive wildfire sweeping through Belgium’s eastern forests has triggered an unprecedented emergency response, with hundreds of firefighters, farmers and aerial resources deployed to contain one of the most severe blazes recorded in the country’s recent history. The flames have already destroyed nearly 3,000 hectares of protected woodland in the Hautes Fagnes region, raising concerns as the fire moves closer to the German border.

Thousands of hectares threatened by flames

The wildfire broke out in the Hautes Fagnes, a vast forested area in eastern Belgium known for its unique landscapes and popularity among hikers. Since Friday, emergency crews have been working continuously to slow the spread of the blaze, which has affected a large natural reserve.

Firefighters have faced difficult conditions, with dry vegetation and challenging terrain complicating efforts to establish control lines. Despite progress in limiting the damage, authorities have not yet declared the situation fully under control.

“We are holding on because everyone wants this fire to be extinguished,” said firefighter Grégory Mélotte, who was completing another operational shift in the affected area. He explained that teams had managed to prevent the flames from reaching major sections of the region’s large spruce forests.

Farmers join emergency efforts

The firefighting operation has also relied heavily on support from local agricultural communities. Farmers have provided tractors, water supplies and access routes to assist emergency teams working on the ground.

Near Lake Robertville, a strategic water source for the operation, local residents have adapted their activities to support the response. Jean-Pierre Robert, who manages a nearby hotel, said around fifteen tractors were waiting to refill their tanks and contribute to firefighting operations.

Farmers have also moved livestock away from vulnerable areas and opened access points to allow emergency vehicles to reach essential water supplies.

A historic wildfire for Belgium

The scale of the disaster has made it one of the largest forest fires in modern Belgian history. Authorities and experts are closely monitoring the situation as the flames continue to threaten additional wooded areas.

The event has revived memories of a major fire that devastated the same region in 1911, underlining the exceptional nature of the current crisis.

While emergency services remain fully engaged, the coming days will be decisive in determining whether firefighters can finally contain the wildfire and protect the remaining forest ecosystems.