A rapidly spreading forest fire in Belgium’s High Fens nature reserve has destroyed 30 square kilometers of land, prompting evacuations and international firefighting efforts.

A devastating forest fire in Belgium’s High Fens nature reserve, near the border with Germany, has engulfed approximately 30 square kilometers of land, equivalent to 4,000 football fields. Thick smoke has spread into neighboring regions, including North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, raising concerns about air quality and public safety. Belgian authorities have evacuated around 600 residents from nearby communities in the Liège province, while tourists have been urged to leave the area.

In Germany, parts of the town of Monschau have been evacuated as the fire approaches the border, with flames now just 2.5 kilometers away. Local officials have ordered residents in specific streets to leave immediately due to the risk posed by smoke and fire. Emergency shelters have been set up for evacuees, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation to assess further risks.

Over 250 Belgian firefighters are battling the blaze under challenging conditions, with support from German personnel and resources. The European Union’s civil protection mechanism has been activated, enabling additional assistance from countries like the Netherlands and Sweden. Dutch helicopters and Swedish firefighting planes have joined the efforts to contain the fire, which continues to spread in hard-to-reach areas. Officials warn that without swift containment, the fire could cross into Germany, escalating the crisis further.