Fire in the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) in Belgium: Luxembourg authorities monitor the situation and issue recommendations to the public

Due to the ongoing wildfire in the High Fens region in eastern Belgium, smoke and a strong smell of burning may be noticeable in several parts of Luxembourg. Weather conditions are expected to favour the spread of smoke beyond the area directly affected by the fire.

To assess developments and the potential consequences for Luxembourg, an interministerial assessment group met on Sunday afternoon. The Luxembourg authorities are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the relevant partners and remain in contact with the Belgian authorities.

At this stage, no significant health impact on the population has been identified. However, exposure to smoke may irritate the respiratory tract and cause breathing difficulties, particularly among sensitive individuals.

Further developments in Luxembourg will depend in particular on weather conditions and wind direction. According to current forecasts, the wind is expected to gradually shift to a northerly direction from this evening onwards, which could alter the dispersion of smoke and the areas affected.

Recommendations to the public

As a precaution, residents who notice smoke or are affected by the smell are advised to:

• keep the doors and windows of their homes closed;
• limit their exposure to smoke as much as possible and avoid prolonged physical activity outdoors when smoke or the smell is particularly noticeable;
• temporarily switch off ventilation or air-exchange systems that draw in outside air if they could allow smoke to enter the home;
• pay particular attention to vulnerable people, especially infants and young children, older people, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions;
• follow the information and recommendations issued by the Luxembourg authorities through official channels.

Once the smell or presence of smoke has diminished, residents are advised to ventilate indoor spaces again, provided that outdoor conditions permit. Smoke and odours may also occur intermittently depending on changes in wind conditions.

These recommendations are consistent with the precautionary measures issued by the Belgian authorities in areas affected by the smoke.

Only call the emergency services in an emergency

The public is also reminded that a smell of burning caused by smoke from the fire is not in itself a reason to call the emergency services if there is no immediate danger.

However, if you see a fire, a dangerous situation or a person in distress, call 112 immediately.

The Luxembourg authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and how it may develop in Luxembourg. Any new information or recommendations will be communicated through official channels as necessary.

Further information: APP Meng Loft; www.emwelt.lu; www.infocrise.lu; www.lu-alert.lu; www.meteolux.lu
Participating authorities: Environment Agency; Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS); Health Directorate; High Commission for National Protection (HCPN); MeteoLux.

Press release by the Interministerial Assessment Group