Domestic
Concerns over forest fire in Belgium: Monschau prepares for evacuation
Residents in Monschau are anxiously watching Belgium, where a forest fire near the border is threatening.
In the border region near Monschau, North Rhine-Westphalia, there are concerns about a forest fire raging in the High Fens area of Belgium. According to reports, the fire is now only about three kilometers from the German border.
The city of Monschau has asked residents to prepare for a possible evacuation. This affects around 5,000 people living near the impacted area, according to the city administration.
Additionally, there are warnings of heavy smoke pollution that could be caused by the spread of the fire. The situation is described as tense as local authorities monitor developments.
The situation in the adjacent Hürtgen Forest appears to be easing slightly. Nonetheless, concerns about the advancing fire in Belgium persist, and authorities are advising caution.