EU Sends Aid to Belgium for Record-Breaking Wildfire

The European Union has responded to Belgium's urgent request for assistance by deploying aerial firefighting resources to combat a massive wildfire raging in the High Fens nature reserve. Three helicopters and two firefighting planes were sent on Saturday to aid efforts against the blaze, which began on Friday.

The fire has already consumed over 1,600 hectares (16 square kilometers) of Belgium's largest nature reserve, located in the eastern part of the country. Local firefighters, farmers, and the Belgian army have been mobilized to fight the flames. If the current figures are accurate, this wildfire could become the largest ever recorded in Belgium.

This incident in Belgium follows a significant wildfire in neighboring Germany, which is reportedly now under control. That German fire, near the Belgian border, led to the evacuation of over 2,000 people, who are still unable to return home.

Both Belgium and Germany are experiencing severe heatwaves, part of Europe's fifth heatwave this summer. These extreme temperatures and dry conditions create a heightened risk of wildfires across the continent. Southern Europe has been particularly hard-hit, with Spain declaring a state of emergency in July due to wildfires, and thousands evacuated in both Spain and France. Greece also faced uncontrolled wildfires this week, forcing evacuations in the town of Siviri.

The recurring and intense heatwaves across Europe are exacerbating dry conditions, making natural reserves and surrounding areas highly susceptible to fires. The coordinated EU response highlights the transboundary nature of such environmental emergencies and the need for international cooperation.