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On Thursday 20 August 2026, the Inter-ministerial Assessment Unit met again to review the progress of the fire in the Hautes Fagnes (High Fens) in Belgium, and its potential impact on Luxembourg.

According to the meeting, the situation in Luxembourg continues to improve: fine particulate matter concentrations remain low and stable, and the weather forecast for the coming days is generally favorable. Authorities are nevertheless maintaining close monitoring of the situation and air quality.

Evolution of the Weather Situation

Wind forecasts, which are crucial for the transport of fine particulate matter to Luxembourg, indicate that the wind will shift to the north during the day on Saturday. This flow is expected to continue until Sunday inclusive. From Monday, the wind is expected to shift to the east, a configuration that should significantly reduce the transport of fine particles towards Luxembourg and, consequently, their impact on air quality.

Air Quality

Concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 fine particles currently remain at a low and stable level, with no indication of a significant deterioration in air quality. They will nevertheless continue to be closely monitored to quickly detect any potential changes.

To strengthen monitoring in the north of the country, temporary and targeted measurement campaigns were implemented following the fire, with the installation of three additional PM10 and PM2.5 monitoring stations. Indicative results from these measurements, as well as hourly values ​​from the air quality monitoring network, are available at www.emwelt.lu, allowing for more precise tracking of concentration trends.

Positive Development Confirmed

Based on all currently available information, the situation in Luxembourg is considered favorable. Should smoke or smoke odors nevertheless be detected locally, the previously communicated precautionary measures can continue to be applied, including closing doors and windows and limiting exposure to smoke.

The Luxembourg authorities continue to closely monitor the situation and its potential development in Luxembourg. Any new information or recommendations will be communicated through official channels as needed, including via https://environnement.public.lu/fr/loft/air/mesures/mesures-actuelles.html

Participants in the Interministerial Assessment Unit

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