Eastern belgium: A major wildfire in eastern Belgium has ravaged approximately 2,700 hectares (6,672 acres) of natural land, resulting in the evacuation of hundreds of residents, local media reported on Sunday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the blaze has been raging in the High Fens nature reserve since Friday and remains active in several locations. The fire has caused heavy smoke, affecting nearby communities. Residents from the towns of Sourbrodt and Butgenbach have been evacuated as a precaution, with around 600 people unable to return to their homes.

More than 250 emergency personnel, including over 100 firefighters from Belgium and Germany, 70 police officers, 40 soldiers, and 20 civil protection personnel, have been working tirelessly to contain the fire. Two Dutch Chinook helicopters, each capable of carrying about 7,600 liters (2,008 gallons) of water, were also deployed to assist in firefighting operations.

Authorities have reported that shifting winds and challenging terrain are complicating efforts to control the blaze. The peat beneath the heathland continues to smolder, causing persistent flare-ups.

As the fire expanded toward Monschau, a German town near the Belgian border, residents of several neighborhoods, including Plattevenn and Leyloch, were instructed to evacuate on Sunday morning. Meanwhile, authorities in Malmedy advised residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, avoid outdoor physical activities, and turn off ventilation systems due to the pervasive smoke.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed gratitude to emergency personnel and European partners for their assistance, extending his thoughts to all those impacted by the wildfire.