Rain Aids Containment, Royal Visit to Fagnes
Get European news in your inbox daily
A short daily digest of the whole continent — or just the countries you care about.
Check your email. We've sent a confirmation link — click it to complete your subscription.
Significant rainfall and calmer winds have aided in containing the extensive wildfire in Belgium's Fagnes region, with reports indicating the blaze is no longer spreading towards the German border. International assistance has arrived, including two helicopters from Germany, bolstering local firefighting efforts.
His Majesty King Philippe visited the crisis center today in response to the ongoing situation, highlighting the national focus on the disaster. The containment efforts come amidst public and political scrutiny regarding Belgium's lack of heavy firefighting helicopters and questions about earlier preventative measures in the nature reserve.
The tourism sector in the affected Hautes Fagnes area is facing urgent measures, including cancellations and closures. Meanwhile, new claims for the recently discovered Dendermonde gold treasure are emerging from both within Belgium and internationally, and the Casino of Knokke is reportedly facing a significant event concerning its future.