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Belgium wildfire, French PM booed
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Belgium's largest wildfire burned over 3,000 hectares, nearing Germany. French PM Sébastien Lecornu was booed at a Gironde fire site.
Background
Europe is experiencing severe wildfires amid a summer heatwave and drought. Belgium's Hautes Fagnes nature reserve has been burning since Friday, with the fire approaching the German border and prompting evacuations. France and Greece are also battling large fires.
How it unfolded
- Aug 14, 2026Wildfire starts in Belgium's Hautes Fagnes nature reserve on Friday afternoon.
- Aug 16, 2026Fire scorches more than 2,700 hectares; EU sends aircraft; villagers evacuate as blaze heads towards Germany.
- Aug 17, 2026Fire has burned over 3,000 hectares; light rain slows spread east; King Philippe to visit affected area. French PM booed at Gironde wildfire site.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Belgian authorities are managing the largest wildfire in the country's history, with King Philippe visiting the affected area.
- Public
- French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu was booed upon arrival at a Gironde wildfire site, reflecting public frustration.
Still unverified
The exact size of the fire is provisional; the booing incident is reported but details are limited.