Fire in the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) in Belgium: Luxembourg authorities monitoring the situation and issuing recommendations to the public (16 August 2026)

Due to the wildfire currently affecting the High Fens region in eastern Belgium, smoke and a strong burning smell 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 cell met this afternoon. 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 cause irritation of the respiratory tract and breathing difficulties, particularly among sensitive individuals.

The evolution of the situation in Luxembourg will depend notably 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 odour are advised to:

• keep doors and windows of their homes closed;
• limit exposure to smoke as much as possible and avoid prolonged outdoor physical activities when smoke or odours are significant;
• temporarily switch off ventilation or air-exchange systems that draw in outside air where these may allow smoke to enter the home;
• pay particular attention to vulnerable persons, especially infants and young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions;
• follow information and recommendations issued by Luxembourg authorities through official communication channels.

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

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

Do not overload emergency services

It is also recalled that the mere presence of a burning smell caused by smoke from the fire does not justify calling the emergency services in the absence of any immediate danger.

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

Luxembourg authorities continue to monitor the situation and any possible developments affecting Luxembourg. Any new information or recommendations will be communicated through official channels if necessary.

Further information:

APP Meng Loft; www.emwelt.lu; www.infocrise.lu; www.lu-alert.lu; www.meteolux.lu

Participants in the Interministerial Assessment Cell:

Environment Agency; Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS); Directorate of Health; High Commission for National Protection (HCPN); MeteoLux

Issued by: Interministerial Assessment Cell.