Belgium faces an increasing risk of forest fires due to climate change, and the country remains ill-equipped to manage them, according to a report by the Centre for Climate Risk Analysis (CERAC) obtained by Le Soir.
The report highlights that Belgium is experiencing hotter and drier conditions, with more frequent and intense droughts. These conditions are expected to accelerate the occurrence of wildfires, particularly in the summer and spring seasons.
Experts warn that without adequate preparation, the nation could struggle to control and mitigate the impact of these fires.
A Growing Threat
Climate patterns in Belgium have shifted significantly in recent years, with prolonged droughts becoming more common.
CERAC’s findings indicate that these droughts result from reduced precipitation and increased evaporation, creating an environment conducive to wildfires.
While Belgium has not historically been prone to large-scale wildfires like those seen in Southern Europe, the changing climate is altering the risk landscape.
Experts caution that the dangers extend far beyond the immediate destruction of forests and wildlife. “Forest fires do not just destroy vegetation, property, and infrastructure; they also pose serious environmental and public health risks,” the report states.
One of the most immediate consequences is the degradation of air quality due to smoke and particulate matter released into the atmosphere.
Additionally, post-fire effects can be just as devastating. Fires weaken the soil, making it more susceptible to erosion. This, in turn, affects water quality, as the charred ground becomes hydrophobic—repelling water rather than absorbing it.
The resulting runoff can introduce large quantities of ash and debris into freshwater ecosystems, harming aquatic life and polluting drinking water sources.
Insufficient Preparedness
Despite the increasing risks, CERAC warns that Belgium’s current wildfire preparedness measures are inadequate. The report criticises urban planning and land-use policies, noting that wildfire prevention strategies are often overlooked in decision-making processes.
Poorly planned developments in fire-prone areas further exacerbate the problem, as residential and commercial buildings are placed at greater risk.
Another major concern is the readiness of Belgium’s firefighting services. Unlike countries with extensive experience in wildfire management, Belgium lacks specialised equipment and personnel trained to combat large-scale forest fires.
Firefighting units often struggle to handle multiple wildfires simultaneously while maintaining other essential emergency response services.
“We do not have the resources or the manpower to sustain prolonged wildfire operations,” a CERAC expert stated. “Belgium needs to invest in better equipment, training programs, and coordinated response strategies.”
A Call for Action
The CERAC report urges policymakers to act swiftly, recommending an overhaul of existing wildfire management plans.
Key suggestions include improving early warning systems, enhancing emergency response coordination, and incorporating wildfire prevention measures into urban and rural planning.
As climate change continues to reshape Belgium’s environment, experts stress that proactive measures must be taken to mitigate wildfire risks.
Without significant improvements in preparedness and prevention, the country could face increasingly devastating consequences from wildfires in the years ahead.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
