Hautes Fagnes ablaze, smoke blankets region as volunteers battle fires

A persistent, acrid smell of smoke hangs over the Hautes Fagnes region in Belgium, a stark reminder of the wildfires that have consumed nearly 3,000 hectares since Friday. The scent clings to the air, a lingering presence even for those who have left the affected area.

Despite the environmental devastation, life in towns like Malmedy continues with a veneer of normalcy, though the smoke creates an eerie, persistent mist. Streets in villages closer to the fires are deserted, with residents remaining indoors. The N68 road is closed to allow emergency services to work, and the surrounding pine forests are a constant worry, with fears the fire could spread.

A continuous stream of tractors, driven by volunteer farmers, shuttles water to the fire lines. These volunteers, wearing high-visibility vests and masks, are crucial in supplying water to douse the flames and prevent flare-ups in already extinguished areas.

In Malmedy, the local sports hall has been converted into a shelter by the Red Cross. Mayor Jean-Paul Bastin has been coordinating efforts, with about fifty people passing through and twenty spending the night. He noted the community's distress and strong desire to help, stating, "We all have memories in the Fagnes, we are all affected by the situation. And we feel that people do not want to remain inactive, that they want to help."

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We all have memories in the Fagnes, we are all affected by the situation. And we feel that people do not want to remain inactive, that they want to help.