Interministerial Assessment Cell: Fire in the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) – conditions currently favourable for Luxembourg (18.08.2026)

The Interministerial Assessment Cell met again today. It reviewed the latest available information concerning the fire in the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) in Belgium and its potential impact on Luxembourg.

In view of the changing weather conditions, the situation regarding the impact of smoke on Luxembourg is developing favourably.

Weather outlook

The latest forecasts confirm a favourable development for Luxembourg. Winds have shifted to westerly to south-westerly, and forecasts indicate that these conditions will remain in place until Friday. This weather pattern should significantly limit the transport of smoke and particulate matter towards Luxembourg and thereby reduce their impact on air quality in the Grand Duchy.

Air quality

The levels currently observed in Luxembourg remain low, although they are still slightly above the levels usually recorded. Current forecasts indicate that this situation will remain unchanged over the next three days.

Although one monitoring station still recorded a daily PM10 concentration above 50 µg/m³ yesterday, this was mainly due to a period of higher concentrations during the night. Since yesterday afternoon, the situation has improved significantly and measured concentrations have remained at satisfactory levels.

The hourly values available on the emwelt.lu website also provide a more detailed overview of how concentrations are developing.

Reminder of precautionary measures

In view of the latest available information, no additional measures are considered necessary at this stage.

Nevertheless, anyone who notices smoke or is affected by the smell of burning may continue to follow the following precautionary measureskeep doors and windows closed;

• limit exposure to smoke as much as possible;
• avoid prolonged physical activity outdoors when smoke or the smell of burning is particularly noticeable;
• where appropriate, limit work activities involving significant physical exertion when smoke or the smell of burning is particularly noticeable;
• temporarily switch off ventilation systems that draw in outside air, where appropriate;
• pay particular attention to vulnerable people, especially infants and young children, older people, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions;
• follow the information and recommendations issued by the Luxembourg authorities through official channels.

The Luxembourg authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and its potential impact on Luxembourg. Any new information or recommendations will be communicated through official channels as necessary.

 Further information

https://environnement.public.lu/fr/loft/air/mesures/mesures-actuelles.html - APP Meng Loft - www.emwelt.lu - www.infocrise.lu - www.lu-alert.lu - www.meteolux.lu

 Participating authorities:

Environment Agency; Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA); Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS); Health Directorate; High Commission for National Protection (HCPN); Inspectorate of Labour and Mines (ITM); MeteoLux; Ministry of Education, Children and Youth; .

Press release by the Interministerial Assessment Cell