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On Sunday 16 August 2026, Luxembourg's Interministerial Assessment Unit reported that smoke and a strong smell of burning from the ongoing wildfire in the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) in eastern Belgium could be noticeable in several parts of Luxembourg.
According to the authorities, weather conditions were expected to favour the spread of smoke beyond the area directly affected by the fire.
The Interministerial Assessment Unit met on Sunday afternoon to assess developments and the potential consequences for Luxembourg. The Luxembourg authorities said they were closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the relevant partners and remained in contact with the Belgian authorities.
At the time of the announcement, the authorities had identified no significant health impact on the population. However, they warned that exposure to smoke could irritate the respiratory tract and cause breathing difficulties, particularly among vulnerable people.
Developments in Luxembourg were expected to depend largely on weather conditions and wind direction. According to forecasts at the time, winds were expected to gradually shift to the north from Sunday evening, potentially changing the dispersion of the smoke and the areas affected.
As a precaution, the authorities advised residents who notice smoke or are affected by the smell to:
- close doors and windows;
- limit their exposure to smoke;
- avoid prolonged physical activity outdoors when noticing significant amount of smoke or smell;
- temporarily switching off ventilation systems that bring in outside air if these could allow smoke to enter buildings.
The authorities also advised paying particular attention to vulnerable people, including babies and young children, elderly people, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular problems, as well as keep following information and recommendations issued through official channels.
Once the smell or presence of smoke has decreased, residents should ventilate their homes again if outdoor conditions allow. The authorities noted that the smoke and smell could occur intermittently depending on changes in wind direction.
The authorities added that recommendations correspond to precautionary measures communicated by the Belgian authorities in areas affected by the smoke.
The authorities also stressed that the smell of burning caused by smoke from the wildfire does not justify calling the emergency services in the absence of immediate danger. However, anyone who notices a fire, a dangerous situation or a person in distress should call 112 immediately.
