World
High Fens fire surpasses 2,000 hectares, residents evacuated
A wildfire declared in Belgium's High Fens on August 14, 2026, exceeded 2,000 hectares by August 15, prompting evacuations. The fire remained uncontained and was described as one of the worst in recent Belgian history. Belgium activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism, requesting international reinforcements. Dutch and Swedish aircraft joined firefighting efforts, with additional equipment expected operational by August 16. The rugged terrain complicated firefighting operations.