Lower temperatures and rain reduce wildfire risk in Belgium to yellow code

The risk of wildfires in Flanders, Belgium, has been downgraded from orange to yellow, effective Monday afternoon. This reduction is attributed to recent cooler temperatures and rainfall, according to the Agency for Nature and Forest.

The warning level was lowered at 4:00 PM, with officials noting that while significant precipitation has fallen, some areas still experience dry soil conditions. This prevents an immediate return to the 'green code,' which signifies no particular risk of natural fires.

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There has been quite a bit of precipitation in recent days. As a result, the fire hazard has decreased.

Officials suggest that Flanders could return to the green code within weeks, provided temperatures remain moderate and additional rainfall occurs. Despite the downgrade, vigilance remains crucial. Visitors to natural areas are urged to remain alert and report any signs of smoke immediately to emergency services by calling 112.

Smoking and making fires are strictly prohibited in natural areas. The agency emphasizes that the landscape remains dry, and caution is therefore still necessary. The different warning codes are: Green (no particular risk), Yellow (increased risk, extra vigilance), Orange (high risk, visitors advised caution), and Red (acute fire danger, access to areas discouraged).

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We ask everyone visiting a natural area to remain alert. If you see a plume of smoke, immediately notify the emergency services via the number 112.