ALVERINGEM, West Flanders — A devastating fire tore through a large barn in the Gijverinkhove district of Alveringem on Friday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of 150 animals and triggering a major public health warning due to the release of asbestos.
The blaze was first reported around 2:50 p.m. on Lostraat, prompting a rapid response from the Westhoek Fire Service Zone. By the time firefighters arrived, flames had already engulfed the structure’s roof and a towering plume of smoke could be seen from a significant distance.
Fire crews battled the inferno for several hours before bringing it under control around 6 p.m. However, extinguishing efforts are expected to continue throughout the night due to lingering hotspots. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
Roughly 60 of the approximately 200 cows housed in the barn were successfully rescued and transferred to a nearby meadow. A veterinarian administered pain relief to several injured animals on the scene. Tragically, the farmer confirmed that 150 animals — including 50 calves — perished in the blaze.
In addition to the heavy loss of livestock, the fire has raised serious environmental concerns. Authorities revealed that the barn’s roof contained asbestos, which was dispersed by the thick smoke and strong winds.
A hazardous materials advisor on-site evaluated the soot particles and confirmed a possible asbestos contamination within a 700-metre radius downwind from the fire.
Residents within the affected zone have been urged not to touch any soot and to report its presence via the dedicated hotline at 0494/419230. Outside of this perimeter, the soot may be cleaned up with caution. Officials advise residents to wear gloves during cleanup operations and to thoroughly wash their hands afterward.
As a safety precaution, several homes on nearby Weegschede Street were temporarily evacuated due to the heavy smoke. Six residents were relocated to Alveringem’s community centre and will not yet be allowed to return to their homes. However, they are permitted short visits to care for or retrieve pets after registering with police officers stationed on Lostraat.
The fire service has also advised residents in the vicinity to keep all windows and doors tightly shut until further notice.
This tragic incident has shocked the local farming community and prompted calls for increased support for affected farmers. Municipal officials are coordinating with emergency services and environmental specialists to manage the fallout and ensure public safety.
As the investigation continues, local authorities and residents are left grappling with the aftermath of one of the region’s most destructive barn fires in recent memory.
