What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of August 17, 2026, the High Fens wildfire is burning in the Hautes Fagnes (High Fens) nature reserve in eastern Belgium, near the German border.
The fire began on August 14 and spread through heathland, peat bogs, and pine forests, with shifting winds complicating firefighting efforts (1).
Wildfire map of eastern Belgium and western Germany as of August 17, 2026. Source: IQAir.
Which cities or areas are affected by the High Fens wildfire?
The affected areas in Belgium include:
The wildfire is also producing significant smoke near the German border, affecting nearby areas in Germany.
What is the current containment status of the High Fens wildfire?
The wildfire has burned about 3,000 hectares (7414 acers) and remains active, with no overall containment percentage reported (2).
Two fire fronts heading toward Jalhay and Monschau have been brought under control, while firefighters continue working to contain the remaining fire.
Hundreds of firefighters and emergency workers, supported by aircraft, helicopters, farmers, and crews from neighboring countries, are involved in the response (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Evacuation orders remain in effect for parts of Waimes and Bütgenbach, where around 600 residents were evacuated.
In Germany, authorities in Monschau ordered evacuations on two streets and warned residents near the border about smoke.
Evacuated Belgian residents have been told not to return while conditions remain unsafe (4).
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
