An ongoing wildfire in the Fagnes region has burned approximately one hundred hectares, prompting a temporary suspension of helicopter firefighting operations overnight, according to Nathalie Thönnissen, the bourgmestre of Baelen.
Fire Timeline and Location Details in Baelen
The fire started on Friday shortly after 13:00 at the Fagne des Deux-Séries, near the Drossart roundabout within the territory of the municipality of Baelen. Authorities have confirmed that the specific circumstances surrounding the origin of the fire remain unknown at this time. Because the blaze continues to spread through the area, public access is heavily restricted. Citizens are strongly advised to avoid the Fagnes entirely throughout the weekend to prevent any interference with active emergency services, and general walking excursions are officially prohibited.
Did You Know? The Protection civile has installed a specialized pool close to the disaster zone so that firefighting aircraft can quickly refill their water supplies during operations.
Emergency Response and Aerial Operations Schedule
Aerial firefighting efforts involving equipment from both the federal police and the Défense are scheduled to resume at 07:00 on Saturday morning. These specialized aircraft were grounded overnight while the ground-level situation developed. To maintain a rapid turnaround time once flights resume, the Protection civile set up a water supply pool directly adjacent to the incident site.
Cancellations of Weekend Events and Public Gatherings
Several public events and gatherings scheduled for Friday and the weekend have been canceled due to the ongoing wildfire emergency. Affected events include the Nuit des étoiles filantes, which was scheduled for Friday evening, alongside the Stavelot motorcycle enduro, which had been planned for Sunday. Officials emphasize that these preemptive cancellations are necessary to keep local roadways clear and ensure that emergency response teams can move unhindered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current size of the wildfire?
According to municipal officials, the fire has already ravaged approximately one hundred hectares in the Fagnes.
When will helicopter firefighting operations resume?
Aerial units from the federal police and the Défense are set to resume their service on Saturday morning at 07:00.
Are citizens allowed to visit the Fagnes this weekend?
No. Citizens are urged to stay away from the area to avoid disrupting emergency services, and recreational walks are strictly prohibited.
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